Karen E. Whitmore has been named quality program manager for the Automotive Industry Action Group (AIAG). As program manager, Whitmore will serve as AIAG's direct liaison for the DaimlerChrysler, Ford and General Motors Supplier Quality Requirements Task Force.

Jonathan Kurrle has joined The Association for Manufacturing Technology as legislative director. He will promote member public policy interests, including regulatory relief, product liability reform and capital recovery cost.

The Society of Manufacturing Engineers (SME) has presented Gene F. Haas with the SME Albert M. Sargent award, which is granted for significant accomplishments in the field of manufacturing processes, methods or systems.