Cory Hayes

Associated Equipment Distributors (AED) recently hired Cory Hayes as vice president of operations for The AED Foundation. The AED board of directors has recommended an effort to aggressively increase focus on the workforce skills gap challenge facing the industry. The continued development of The AED Foundation's accredited diesel technician footprint remains a top priority to provide a quality workforce to AED members in North America. As part of these expanded efforts, Hayes was brought in to spearhead operations.

Hayes has nearly 20 years of experience in the heavy equipment industry, working with dealers, OEMs and service providers. He brings a decade of experience from the private sector working at a leading equipment dealer consulting firm helping dealers improve operational, financial and management practices. He lends nearly another decade of experience serving in mid-level and executive level roles as the vice president of training and education at the largest regional trade association in the agriculture sector.

"Serving as a leader within the equipment industry over the years, I've had the privilege of working with AED on industry projects, as well as at regional chapter meetings," Hayes stated. "I look forward to working with AED members to construct pathways to opportunities and enhance the programs that the Association and The AED Foundation offers."

As vice president of foundation operations, Hayes' responsibilities are to provide oversight and support to the existing AED Foundation team. Key areas of focus will be furthering the organization's mission to accredit more than 10 new college and high school diesel technician programs in 2019 for North America, oversee capital campaign efforts for The AED Foundation and contribute to the workforce and development programs offered to the construction equipment industry.

"As the AED Foundation embarks on an ambitious growth strategy, we are very pleased to have Cory Hayes leading the charge," said AED President and CEO Brian P. McGuire. "His knowledge of our industry and his resources throughout North America will ensure our success."

For more information, visit www.aednet.org.

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