Kennametal today announced that it has restarted operations at its factory in Rogers, Arkansas. The facility has been shut down since May 26, 2024, when it sustained damage from a tornado that left the town “unrecognizable.”
According to new President and CEO Sanjay Chowbey, Kennametal’s staff “worked around the clock” to make sure the plant could safely restart while meeting customer expectations. Chowbey said the restart is a “testament to the great teamwork of our local team and the tremendous support and coordination of expert resources across the entire organization.” Chowbey took over the leadership role effective June, 1.
As the facility comes back online, Kennametal is still working with its insurance carrier to assess the financial effects of the storm.
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When the tornado struck, the factory was shut down for the Memorial Day weekend, and no employees were injured.
The plant in Rogers is part of the company’s infrastructure segment and makes engineered carbide wear components primarily for the energy, general engineering and earthmoving equipment end markets. The facility also produces rods used to manufacture round tools for Kennametal’s metal cutting segment.
The Pittsburgh-based company also contributed to the local American Red Cross to support the local community.
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