Long-tenured sales and marketing leader steps into CEO role as company positions for next chapter of growth
Winsted, MN (09-01-2026) – AWI Manufacturing, a leading provider of stainless steel products in the food and beverage industry and custom metal fabrication, announced the appointment of Brent Johnson as Chief Executive Officer, effective September 1, 2026. Johnson, who has most recently served as Vice President of Sales and Marketing, has been with AWI for more than 20 years and assumes the role as the company enters a deliberate new phase of growth and generational transition.
AWI Manufacturing has been family-owned and operated for more than 55 years, serving customers across the food and beverage processing and industrial fabrication markets. Headquartered in Winsted, Minnesota, the company employs approximately 120 people and serves customers throughout the United States.
“Brent has been a driving force behind AWI’s growth for two decades,” said Gary Scherping, on behalf of AWI’s ownership family. “He knows our customers, our team, and our values. Appointing Brent as CEO is the right decision for where this company is going, and we have complete confidence in his ability to lead AWI through its next chapter while honoring everything our family has built.”
Johnson’s tenure at AWI has been defined by sustained revenue growth, strong customer relationships, and a deep understanding of the company’s stainless steel products and custom metal fabrication operations. In his new role as CEO, he will be responsible for the company’s overall strategic direction, financial performance, operational leadership, and the continued development of AWI’s executive team.
“I am honored to lead this company and humbled by the trust the Scherping family has placed in me,” said Johnson. “AWI is a remarkable business built on integrity, craftsmanship, and relationships that span generations. My commitment is to grow what has been built, strengthen the team around me, and make sure AWI is even better positioned for its next 50 years than it is today.”
Johnson will lead AWI’s experienced executive team, while the company continues to operate under family ownership, with the Scherping family maintaining active involvement in the company’s direction and long-term vision.
About AWI Manufacturing
AWI Manufacturing is a family-owned manufacturer headquartered in Winsted, Minnesota, with more than 55 years of experience providing stainless steel products and custom metal fabrication solutions. AWI serves customers across the food and beverage processing, commercial kitchen, and industrial fabrication industries with a focus on quality, reliability, and long-term customer relationships.
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