July 20, 2022 (Originally published on AirBorn.com)
GEORGETOWN, Texas (July 20, 2022) – AirBorn, the Texas-based designer and manufacturer of high-reliability electronic systems, announces promotions within its executive leadership team.
Michael Cole, previously serving as Chief Operating Officer, effective immediately assumes the duties of President and Chief Executive Officer. AirBorn’s CEO role was previously held by Cindy Lewis, who the company also announced has been named to the newly created Executive Chairperson role.
Assuming various roles within the organization since her 1986 hire, Lewis has most recently served as AirBorn's CEO since 1998 and Chairperson since 2013. She will continue guiding AirBorn in her new role, leading the board of directors and advancing long-term administrative and strategic initiatives.
“It is an honor serving with Mike,” Lewis said. “He has skillfully led the day-to-day operations of AirBorn for almost six years, including the last few years of pandemic and extraordinary industry volatility. He is a strong servant leader, with a strong team who are all passionate about the continued healthy growth of our company. There is no one better to lead us into the future!”
"It's an incredible opportunity, and I am humbled to lead more than 1,700 employee-owners as we reaffirm our dedication to providing customers unmatched quality and expanding our global presence," Cole said. “Working alongside Cindy has been both instructive and inspiring. I look forward to her continued stewardship as Executive Chairperson."
About Executive Chairpersons
An executive chairperson is typically a former CEO who remains employed by the company while leading the board of directors. An executive chairperson is named when a long-term CEO begins the transition process to onboard a new CEO. The role benefits companies by allowing the outgoing CEO’s institutional knowledge and leadership to be retained and leveraged to ensure a smooth transition.
About Michael Cole
Michael Cole joined AirBorn in 2016. A seasoned executive, Cole’s resume includes over three decades of experience in the passive electronics, connectors, and cable-assembly marketplace. Most recently, Cole served as President and minority owner of Meritec Inc. and Senior Vice President/General Manager of Data Communications for TE Connectivity.
About Cindy Lewis
Cindy Lewis’ tenure with AirBorn dates to 1986 when she accepted a position in cost accounting. Since then, she’s held a breadth of key roles, including Vice President of Materials Management, Vice President of Manufacturing and Chief Operating Officer. Before joining AirBorn, Lewis held management positions with Gerber Scientific and Wholesale Grocery Distribution.