HICKORY, N.C. — Anthony “Tony” Everett, president of HSM’s Transportation & Specialty Manufacturing division, will retire on July 31, the company announced on Friday.

Everett, a 30-year veteran of the seating industry, joined HSM with the acquisition of school bus seating supplier C.E. White in 2012, and he held positions of increasing responsibility before serving as the Transportation & Specialty Manufacturing division president.

HSM said that over the six years Everett has been with the company, Transportation & Specialty Manufacturing has grown into a key supplier in the school bus seating segment, touching all major school bus producers. The division also supports customer needs in several other transportation segments, including commercial seats, recreational vehicles, all-terrain vehicles, and aftermarket.

Prior to joining HSM, Everett spent 18 years with American Seating and six years with C.E. White.

“I have come to a fork in the road, and I feel it’s time to put the passion and energy into my personal life as unwaveringly as I have into my business life,” Everett said.

Mark Jones, president and CEO of HSM, thanked Everett for his leadership and credited him with playing a key part in the company’s transformation.

“While his contributions are many, his dedication to grow our business and drive innovation will be remembered most,” Jones said. “Additionally, Tony’s rigorous and disciplined approach are unparalleled.”

During his retirement, Everett will continue to support HSM in a strategic advisory role and will be involved in special projects.

The company has initiated a search for a new president of Transportation & Specialty Manufacturing. In the interim, the division will report to Michael Hinshaw, chief operating officer.