Eric Huttenlocher, Manager of Human Resources Field Services at Kennametal, is taking the reigns as President of the Bedford County Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors for 2012.

He brings a wealth of practical knowledge to his post, with more than 20 years of experience in domestic environments throughout the United States in multiple industries, as well as a proven record of bottom-line results through the management of innovative and cost-effective solutions to business and customer issues.

Mr. Huttenlocher's  commitment to the Chamber has been apparent through his service in a variety of other leadership roles. He has also served as Chair of the BASICS Committee (Businesses and Schools Investing in Cooperative Solutions), and as a member of the Chamber’s Personnel Committee. He has also been very supportive of many Chamber programs through Kennametal's sponsorship of projects like the Chamber Annual Dinner & Awards, Golf Tournament, Agri-Business Brochure and Tech the Halls, as well as the Chamber Foundation's Steps to Success Program, during which he also serves as a major presenter to the assembled students.

Eric's commitment to the community goes beyond the Chamber. He is a member of the Bedford High School Business Advisory Committee and a Board Member of the Bedford County United Way, and participates with other Kennametal employes in work for the American Cancer Society, the company's Hat, Coat & Mitten Tree and other community service projects.

Huttenlocher's qualities of business leadership and community service fit the Chamber mission well, and he is excited about building on the 2011 success of the organization: 

"As the 2012 Chamber Board President I am both honored and humbled to be part of such a great organization," he said.

"The Chamber has consistently provided an entrepreneurial partnership with its members, while facilitating relationships across the region we service.  I expect 2012 to be no different and will encourage our organization to focus in three primary initiatives in the coming months:

(1) Cultivate new membership through a "value add" proposition; 

(2) partner closely with our current members, ensuring the Chamber continues to evolve with our members changing needs; and

(3) continue to refine the programs we offer our members and adjust as needed.

Although 2012 will present many challenges, both locally and nationally, I am confident that the Chamber staff, board and members are up to the challenge of building a stronger  Bedford County."