For Immediate Release: August 10, 2007
Contact: Matt Braud   (202) 482-3447

Rear Admiral William G. Sutton, U.S. Navy (Ret.) joins the Commerce Department as Assistant Secretary for Manufacturing and Services

WASHINGTON – After unanimous Senate confirmation, William G. Sutton, CAE, Rear Admiral, U.S. Navy (Ret.) has assumed the role of Assistant Secretary for Manufacturing and Services (MAS) this week. The Office of Manufacturing and Services serves as the federal government’s lead advocate for U.S. industry. MAS ensures that laws, policies, and regulations are passed with an eye towards competitiveness.

“It is an honor to return to government service as Assistant Secretary for MAS,” said Sutton. “I look forward to working with the MAS team and our industry partners outside of the Department. We have the opportunity to establish an office within the government that works to strengthen U.S. industry competitiveness here at home and abroad.”

Experience

Prior to this position, Sutton served as the President of the Air-Conditioning and Refrigeration Institute (ARI), the manufacturers trade association for a sector that generates $30 billion a year in revenue for U.S. manufacturers. His 30-year Naval career included numerous afloat operational and ashore commands and experience as Commander of Amphibious Group Two, where he oversaw $19 billion in capital assets, 14,500 military and civilian personnel, and 38 ship and shore commands.

In addition, Sutton has served on the Boards of the American National Standards Institute, North American Technician Excellence, the Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Technology Institute, and the National Association of Manufacturers’ Council of Manufacturing Associations.

Sutton holds a Master of Science Degree in Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and a Bachelor of Science Degree in Naval Engineering from the United States Naval Academy.

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