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PIQUA, Ohio — September 11, 1997 — Hartzell Propeller Inc. announced today the retirement of its President Arthur R. Disbrow, effective September 30. Mr. Disbrow joined the company as Vice President and General Manager in 1981 at the time the company was acquired by TRW. He continued as President when the company was sold by TRW to private interests in 1987.
During Disbrow’s 16 year tenure he successfully saw the company through the collapse of the general aviation market in the early 1980’s. Disbrow also advanced Hartzell’s capabilities with development of the industry’s first composite structure propeller blades, as well as lightweight four, five and six-bladed propeller systems … moves that enabled Hartzell to expand its position in the corporate turboprop and regional airline markets. These actions have been instrumental in tripling sales since he arrived at Hartzell. In addition, under Disbrow’s direction the company made substantial investments in the future of its business by bringing in new production equipment and processes and initiating its Top Prop™ STC program.
Hartzell Chairman Jim Brown will take over the duties of President. “Art Disbrow has led this company with grace and skill for 16 years – through its tough years of the early 80’s and into the vigorous period we are enjoying today. Art is a great leader and a dear friend. Among his many accomplishments at Hartzell, he built a strong supporting team. So, while we’ll miss Art’s leadership, we’re confident of the next watch’s ability to guide our company,” said Brown.
Prior to joining Hartzell, Disbrow was manager of Manufacturing Engineering at TRW’s Compressor Components Division. He joined TRW in 1974 after a 16 year career with General Motors. Disbrow is a graduate of Michigan Technological University with a degree in Mechanical Engineering. He also holds a Masters degree in Business Administration from Michigan State University. Disbrow has served on the boards of numerous aviation and local organizations, including the General Aviation Manufacturer’s Association where he is currently Product Liability Chairman; the Piqua Salvation Army; the Upper Valley Medical Center; the Piqua Area United Fund where he is a past President and he has served as Campaign Chairman. Disbrow was awarded Piqua’s most prestigious civic award, the Order of George, in 1993.
Hartzell Propeller Inc. is the world’s leading manufacturer of propeller systems, shipping product into more than 25 countries in 1996. Hartzell enjoys a 60 percent market share on turboprop airliners and 85 percent market share on corporate turboprops. The 80-year old company is also well-known for its design leadership, having introduced the industry’s first full-feathering propeller for light twins, the first fully reversing propellers for corporate turboprops and the industry’s first composite structure blades.
