Newsmakers - September 2024

Vudoo Gun Works Appoints Executives

Vudoo Gun Works announced the appointment of Jacob Herman as the new CEO, the promotion of Jack Oliver to COO and the hire of Heather Miller as VP of sales and marketing.

Herman brings more than 20 years of industry experience to his new position.

Formerly the director of engineering, Oliver will manage manufacturing, supply chain and quality control, ensuring the consistent delivery of top-tier products.

“His expertise and innovative mindset have been invaluable to our engineering efforts,” noted Herman.

Armed with over a decade of experience in the firearms industry, Miller will develop and execute sales strategies, oversee marketing initiatives and strengthen customer relationships.

Herman shared, “Her arrival marks a dynamic new phase for our company, and we are excited to see the epic advancements she’ll bring to our team and customers.”

TAG Precision Adds Sales Manager

Ian Paul has joined TAG Precision as the company’s new sales manager.

“His extensive experience and enthusiasm for the firearms industry make him a perfect fit for our mission to deliver the most innovative and versatile sights in the market,” said Michael Neff, TAG CEO and owner.

Paul has over 12 years of experience from sales-related roles. Most recently, he served as the e-commerce manager for Clay Shooters Supply. He also spent time as a senior account manager at Davidson’s.

FALCO Holsters Taps Content Creators

FALCO Holsters announced the addition of Luke Cuenco as a content creator. Accompanied by Nic Lenze, Cuenco will create product reviews, how-to guides and application videos to highlight the features and benefits of FALCO holsters. His work will be featured across the company’s social media platforms, website and YouTube channel.

Cuenco has been an integral part of FALCO for many years, creating blogs about guns, holsters, concealed carry and the gun-ownership lifestyle, where he heavily promotes regular training and safety.

NASP Selects VP

The National Archery in the Schools Program (NASP) welcomed Jeff Rawlinson as VP. His duties include growing the relationship between NASP and the nation’s state fish and wildlife agencies, conservation organizations and various shooting sports organizations.  He is also involved in the coordination of all internal and external activities as well as day-to-day operations.

NASP President Tommy Floyd said, “Jeff has developed tremendous positive relationships with state fish and wildlife agencies, conservation organizations and the entire R3 community through his work with Nebraska. His deep commitment to connecting young people to the outdoors makes him a great candidate to help lead our growing organization.”

Rawlinson has served as an assistant division administrator with the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission where he has worked for the past 25 years.

He has been a hunter and bowhunter education instructor for over 25 years and is a member of several wildlife agencies and committees.

Staccato Promotes Executives

Staccato announced the promotion of three senior executives: CEO Nate Horvath is now serving as co-chairman of the board, and Buck Pierson and Justin Honea were named co-CEOs.

Horvath is focusing on strategically extending the company’s reach through deeper customer interactions, building company partnerships and providing leadership to new Staccato customer offerings.

Pierson previously held the title of chief business development officer and was responsible for building the company’s customer base. He joined Staccato in 2018.

Honea joined the company three years ago and was instrumental in enhancing operational efficiency and implementing precision manufacturing as the company’s COO.

Horvath commented, “Buck and Justin have been my key lieutenants responsible for so much of Staccato’s success and were handpicked successors. I now can focus on deepening and expanding our customer experience as we focus on launching new businesses and unique experiences around our recently launched Staccato Ammo and Ranch offerings.”

American Outdoor Brands Promotes Sales VP

Pete Kersker was promoted to American Outdoor Brands’ (AOB) VP of Sales — Outdoor Sports. In this newly created position, he will lead domestic sales of the company’s outdoor sports product categories: personal protection, hunting, shooting, fishing, camping and cutlery.

Brent Vulgamott, COO of American Outdoor Brands, stated, “We’re proud to announce this promotion that recognizes his contributions, and which underscores the importance that the outdoor sports product categories play in our long-term growth strategy.”

Kersker joined AOB in 2016 as a sales manager and was later promoted to director of sales. Most recently, he served as senior director of sales.

Kersker earned a bachelor’s degree at Keene State College.

LaserMax Welcomes Brand Ambassador

LaserMax announced its newest brand ambassador, Ramiro Herrera.

“Ramiro’s extensive experience, dedication to safety and passion for firearms perfectly aligns with our brand values. We look forward to a long and successful partnership,” said Alex Chavez, LaserMax senior product manager. 

Herrera, a former army sergeant, was awarded the Combat Medical Badge, Expert Field Medical Badge, Soldier’s Medal and the Purple Heart. He currently works as a private firearms instructor and is also a social media influencer.

Streamlight Inc. Taps Regional Sales Manager

Scott Kesler is now serving as the Streamlight Regional Sales Manager — Industrial/Fire Division for the West Coast territory (AZ, NV, CA, OR, WA, AK and HI). He is responsible for working with distributors and independent sales representatives to increase product awareness and sales.

Streamlight CRO Michael F. Dineen said, “[Kesler’s] dedication to volunteer and instructional firefighting work will serve our Industrial/Fire division well.”

Most recently, he served as an account manager for Bradken.

Kesler earned a degree in advertising from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.

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