Hodgdon named Steven M. Kehrwald as its new president and CEO. Kehrwald will be the third president and CEO in the company’s 70-year history.

Kehrwald has a long track record of innovation and business success in his career, with shooting industry stints at Federal Cartridge Co., Winchester Ammunition, Beretta USA and Vista Outdoor.

“We’re moving from a position of strength to transform Hodgdon for the future,” JB and Bob Hodgdon said. “Steve Kehrwald is a terrific choice to lead our company during this transformative period for the shooting industry and the reloading space. His track record of building brands, energizing teams, and creating shareholder value makes him an ideal fit for our unique, customer-centered culture. We are thrilled to welcome him to Hodgdon to lead us into the future.”

Added Kehrwald: “I am extremely excited to join the Hodgdon family and the entire Hodgdon team to create an even more dynamic and customer-centric Hodgdon that supports the handloading community around the world. As a long-time member of the shooting sports industry, I have developed a deep appreciation for Hodgdon’s people, values and heritage and look forward to working together with the Hodgdon team.”

Former Hodgdon president and CEO Tom Shepherd will stay on in a consulting role through December 30, 2017, when he will retire and transition into the Chairman of the Hodgdon Board of Directors role.

Established in 1947 by Bruce and Amy Hodgdon, today, sons Bob and JB have grown Hodgdon Powder Company into the largest U.S. supplier of smokeless, blackpowder and blackpowder substitute propellants. The company distributes gunpowder under the Hodgdon, IMR, Winchester, Goex and VihtaVuori brands.