CLEVELAND, June 17, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- The Ohio Aerospace Institute (OAI) Board of Trustees has selected former Timken senior executive Salvatore Miraglia, as its new chairman. He succeeds Brigadier General (ret) Peter Hennessey, a vice president at Battelle, who completes a three-year term as chairman and will remain on the board.

In 2012, Miraglia completed a 40-year career with Timken as president of its Steel Group, and previously served as chairman of the OAI board from 2004 to 2007. Miraglia is a member of the American Society of Professional Engineers, the American Institute of Metallurgical Engineers and the American Society for Metals. He also serves on the President's Council of the Manufacturers Alliance/MAPI. He holds a bachelor's degree in metallurgy and material science from Lehigh University, a master's degree in metallurgy and material science from Case Western Reserve University, and completed the advanced management program at Harvard University.

When asked about his appointment, Miraglia remarked, "I have a deep respect for these trustees, Dr. Heil and the OAI team whose innovative and dedicated services are impacting aerospace interests all across Ohio." He went on to say, "OAI is a true gem that plays a pivotal role in collaboration among government, industry, and academia here in Ohio. My goal is to ensure OAI continues its legacy as an essential hub for growing what is now a $9 billion aerospace economy in our state."

Dr. Michael Heil, OAI president and CEO, had this to say about the transition in board leadership, "Under the stewardship of Chairman Pete Hennessey, we are much stronger operationally and fiscally than we were three years ago, and we are bringing on line exciting new programs to benefit our members. Now we are extremely fortunate to have Sal Miraglia's leadership to continue the momentum. His global business experience, technology expertise, and prior history with OAI are exactly what we need to continue moving forward."

About OAIThe Ohio Aerospace Institute (OAI) is a non-profit organization that enhances the state's aerospace competitiveness by supporting its partners through research and technology development, workforce preparedness, and engagement with global networks for innovation and advocacy. For more information, visit http://www.oai.org.

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Ohio Aerospace Institute Trustees Elect New Chairman