DETROIT — The annual Automotive News PACE Awards, presented here in April, shone a spotlight in the school bus industry as part of its quest to honor “superior innovation, technological advancement and business performance among automotive suppliers.”
M2K’s school bus seat, which is offered in a variety of sizes and with or without lap-shoulder belts, earned honorable mention in the prestigious awards program.
M2K and Takata, the two partnering companies that now own SynTec Seating Solutions, were recognized for the innovative design of the seat and belt system.
Ron Lamparter, co-chairman of M2K and CEO of SynTec, said it was the first time that a product intended solely for school buses had been selected for the honor. “The school bus industry was finally recognized by the automotive industry for a very significant honor amongst competition that was truly global in nature.”
Other companies honored at the 15th PACE Awards included Eaton Corp., Magna Mirrors and BorgWarner.
Bannon hired as VP
In other news, SynTec has appointed Larry Bannon as vice president, new business development.
Bannon has been involved with the school bus industry for more than 30 years. Since 1977, he has served in various capacities as a senior executive at Thomas Built Buses, most recently as vice president, product planning.
In his positions with Thomas Built, Bannon gained broad experience in such areas as overseeing development of new product lines, acquisition of equipment and facilities, and reducing product complexity.