Kennametal Appoints Industry Leaders Dawne Hickton and Richard Harshman to Board of Directors

Kennametal Welcomes Dawne Hickton and Richard Harshman to Board of Directors

Kennametal Inc., a global leader in industrial technology, has announced the addition of Dawne S. Hickton and Richard J. Harshman to its Board of Directors, effective immediately. This strategic move aims to leverage their extensive experience in executive leadership and enhances the company's governance structure.

Profiles of the New Board Members

Dawne S. Hickton

Dawne Hickton serves as the Chair, CEO, and principal investor of Cumberland Additive, Inc., which specializes in additive manufacturing for sectors such as aerospace and defense. With her deep industry knowledge and executive expertise, Hickton is well-positioned to bring valuable insights to Kennametal.

Prior to her role at Cumberland Additive, Hickton was the Executive Vice President at Jacobs, where she led the Critical Mission Solutions business—providing vital engineering services for national security and aerospace projects. Her past experience includes serving as the President and CEO of RTI International Metals, a company focused on advanced materials for various markets, which was later acquired by Alcoa. Hickton has also contributed to multiple public and private boards, showcasing her capabilities as a governance leader. She holds a BA from the University of Rochester and a Juris Doctor degree from the University of Pittsburgh.

Richard J. Harshman

Richard Harshman brings over four decades of executive leadership experience, notably as the former Chairman, President, and CEO of ATI, Inc. His tenure at ATI and its predecessor companies includes numerous senior roles, which have equipped him with comprehensive governance and operational insights relevant to Kennametal's business landscape.

In addition to his leadership at ATI, Harshman is an active board member for PNC Financial Services Group Inc. and Ameren Corporation, bringing further governance expertise as chair of the Audit Committee for both organizations. He has a BSBA in Accounting from Robert Morris University and is a Certified Public Accountant, demonstrating his strong financial background crucial for a board member.

Strategic Impact on Kennametal

Kennametal's President and CEO, Sanjay Chowbey, expressed confidence in the new appointees, stating that their backgrounds in leadership and the industrial sector align with the company’s long-term goals. Their expertise will aid Kennametal in enhancing operational strategies and driving shareholder value.

William M. Lambert, the outgoing Chairman of Kennametal’s Board, emphasized the importance of their combined experience in governance and manufacturing. He believes that such a wealth of knowledge is essential for navigating the complexities of Kennametal’s operational environment.

About Kennametal

Kennametal Inc. has a rich history spanning over 85 years, helping businesses in various sectors, including aerospace, energy, and general engineering, optimize their production processes through cutting-edge technology and materials science. With approximately 8,100 employees worldwide, Kennametal recorded $2.4 billion in revenue for fiscal 2026. The company continues to innovate in tooling and wear-resistant solutions, contributing to the efficiency and competitiveness of clients in nearly 100 countries. To learn more about Kennametal and its ongoing projects, visit their official website at www.kennametal.com. Follow them on social media platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube.

The appointments of Hickton and Harshman are seen as a critical step towards strengthening Kennametal’s leadership team as it looks to the future, ensuring it remains a key player in the rapidly evolving industrial landscape.