Astec’s president steps down but remains as CEO

Astec Industries Inc.’s President Dr. J. Don Brock has stepped down as president of the company, but he will remain as chief executive officer.

Along with Brock’s resignation are the promotions of W. Norman Smith as president and chief operating officer; Benjamin G. Brock as group vice president – asphalt; and Richard J. Dorris, group vice president – energy. The changes were effective Aug. 22.

“Our decentralized company structure facilitates the development of a strong internal management team,” Brock said in a written statement, commenting on the senior management team changes. “As evidenced by their respective backgrounds noted below, these individuals bring considerable experience to their new roles. I would like to personally congratulate each of them and wish them continued success.”

Smith had served as Astec’s group vice president – asphalt since 1998, as president of Astec, Inc. from 1994 to 2006 and president of Heatec Inc. from 1977 to 1994. Smith has a Bachelor of Science degree in mechanical engineering, is a registered professional engineer, has served as a director of Astec since 1982 and is one of the founders of the company.

Brock was appointed president of Astec in 2006. From 2003 to 2006, he served as vice president – sales of Astec and general manager of CEI Enterprises Inc. from 1997 to 2002. Brock’s career with Astec began as a salesman in 1993. In addition to being named group vice president – asphalt, Brock is now responsible for Astec Australia, which reports results in the other group of Astec. Brock has a Bachelor of Science degree in economics and a minor in marketing.

Dorris was appointed as president of Heatec in 2004. From 1999 to 2004, he held the positions of national accounts manager and director of projects for Astec. When Astec, Inc. acquired Esstee Manufacturing in 1999, Dorris was president of Esstee, a position he had held since 1990. Prior to that, Dorris served as a sales engineer from 1984 to 1990. He has a Bachelor of Science degree in mechanical engineering and received his designation as a professional engineer.