Elsner Engineering Works, Inc., based in Hanover, PA, announced that effective October 1, 2012 third generation family member, Frank “Rusty” Elsner, III, retired from the corporation after a 25-year career with the family firm. Rusty last served in the capacity of CEO, president and treasurer of the firm. He is being succeeded at the helm by his cousin and long-time business partner, Bert Elsner, II. 

Rusty joined Elsner Engineering Works, Inc. in 1987 in the capacity of project engineer. Prior to joining Elsner he worked for two other firms in Cleveland, OH, and York, PA. He was promoted to vice president and treasurer of the firm in 1993, upon his father’s retirement, and was elected to the firm’s board of directors at that time. Rusty was promoted to lead the organization in 2001 upon his uncle’s retirement. During his career, he worked in and oversaw various functions of the firm including engineering, manufacturing, finance and sales. 

“I have been very fortunate to have been associated with our family firm for this period,” said Rusty. “I have had the pleasure to work with the best co-workers one could hope for and am very pleased to be able to leave the firm on solid footing with a great, seasoned leadership team in place. I felt the time was right to step aside and afford my cousin the same opportunity while he was still young. I am going to pursue other opportunities, but want to take some time to see where it will lead me. I will retain a board seat for the foreseeable future and thank Bert for that opportunity as well.

“I have also been fortunate to have met and worked with many loyal customers and representatives throughout the world. My travels have taken me to all corners of the world and I was always looked after and cared for by all of my industry associates, customers and friends. Moving on from those relationships will be equally difficult. The confidence our customers have and continue to instill in Elsner is very humbling. Elsner Engineering Works, Inc. is known for designing and manufacturing high quality, reliable equipment and the firm zealously guards that reputation. I am very confident that mission will continue.”

Elsner Engineering Works, Inc. is currently celebrating its 79th year in business as a third generation, family-owned and operated business. The firm designs and manufactures special machinery for the converting and packaging industries. Its line of over 40 different rewinding, folding and overwrapping machines is used to convert and package such products as disposable disinfectant and baby non-woven wipes, gift wrap paper, aluminum foil and wallpaper. Elsner currently services and supports over 2,500 machines worldwide with equipment in service in nearly 60 countries. Besides its headquarters in Hanover, PA, Elsner offers field service support out of Hüllhorst, Germany, and Shanghai, China.