Defense industry executive recognized for service in the State of Indiana
Defense industry executive recognized for service in the State of Indiana
COLUMBIA CITY, Ind. (June 13, 2011) – Former Ultra Electronics-USSI (“USSI”) president Roland Fritts was recently honored for his service and commitment to USSI and to Whitley County with a Special Resolution from the Indiana General Assembly. The Resolution was sponsored by State Representatives Kathy Heuer (R-83) and Dan Leonard (R-50), and State Senator Jim Banks (R-17).
Under Fritts’ guidance, USSI grew from 200 to 380 employees, increased revenue by over $70,000,000, and performed the highest level for product quality, while pursuing the diversification of product lines. "Roland's vision and leadership inspired the employee, customer, and supplier commitments that have significantly contributed to USSI's success," said incoming President Joe Peters.
“Roland Fritts has been a leader in our industry community in recent years,” said EDC president Alan Tio, “We extend our sincere thanks to Roland for his dedication to growing USSI in Whitley County.”
Fritts left his leadership position at Ultra Electronics’ second largest division with 33 years of engineering, management and leadership in the defense industry in Northeast Indiana. In addition to his leadership at USSI, Roland has also served on several community boards and committees in Whitley and Wells Counties. Fritts will continue to support USSI’s business development efforts on a part-time basis.
“On behalf of Whitley County’s representatives in the General Assembly, we are very proud of USSI’s achievements under Roland’s leadership,” said Heuer. "It is companies with leadership like yours that have established Northeast Indiana, and specifically Whitley County as an economic area on the cutting edge of growth and success. We thank you for your dedication and vision to make USSI one of our most successful endeavors." continued Heuer.
In November 2010, USSI's parent company Ultra Electronics acquired the former Autoliv ASP, Inc. building in Park 30 Business Center and plans create up to 45 new jobs at its Whitley County operations.
(pictured left to right: Roland Fritts, Kathy Heuer & Alan Tio)
About Ultra Electronics-USSI
Ultra Electronics - USSI designs and manufactures products and provides engineering services under two business areas: undersea products and audio products. USSI is an industry leader in the development and production of advanced electronic, electro-mechanical, and hydro-acoustic sensors, including sonobuoys, and sensor systems for military, homeland security, and commercial applications. USSI designs and manufactures communications equipment for integration into personal protective gear for firefighters and first responders as well as acoustic hailing products, which provide unparalleled fidelity long range voice communications and large area mass notification. USSI is an indirect, wholly owned subsidiary of Ultra Electronics Holdings plc which is headquartered in the United Kingdom.
About Whitley County EDC
The Whitley County Economic Development Corporation (EDC) is the lead economic development agency in Whitley County, Indiana. The EDC works closely with local, regional, and state partners to support our industry clients' growth and success. Our mission is to implement a unified economic development effort and to expand employment and business opportunities for the benefit of the people of Whitley County by developing and maintaining cooperation of all individuals, groups, and organizations within the county. The Whitley County EDC was established in 1992 and represents Whitley County, Columbia City, and the Towns of Churubusco, Larwill, and South Whitley. For more information about the EDC, visit www.whitleyedc.com.
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Media Contacts:
Alan Tio (Whitley County EDC) – 260.244.5506