A O Smith Appoints Ming Cheng As CTO

A: O. Smith Corp. has named Ming Cheng as its new chief technology officer effective July 7, replacing longtime executive Bob Heideman who will retire on September 1 after over 30 years with the company. Cheng’s appointment marks a strategic move to strengthen global research, product engineering, and long-term technology strategy at the Milwaukee-based water technology firm. His leadership is expected to build on Heideman’s legacy of innovation and global technology development.

Ming Cheng’s Proven Leadership Background

Ming Cheng joins A. O. Smith from 3M Co., where he served as senior vice president of research and development for the transportation and electronics business group. Over a 25-year career at 3M, Cheng held multiple technical leadership roles across the United States and China, covering automotive, electronics, and advanced materials sectors. His experience leading complex R&D organizations positions him to drive A. O. Smith’s technology initiatives forward, enhancing product innovation in water heating and filtration.

Heideman’s Impact On Innovation At A O Smith

Bob Heideman, appointed CTO in 2013, has played a critical role in launching energy-efficient products such as heat pump water heaters and advanced water filtration systems. Since joining A. O. Smith in 1994 as a project engineer, he led the Corporate Technology Center in Milwaukee and helped establish the company’s reputation for sustainable water technologies. His leadership contributed to A. O. Smith’s global technology capabilities and product excellence in residential and commercial water heaters, boilers, and water treatment products.

Educational Credentials Supporting Innovation

Ming Cheng’s academic background includes a Ph. D. in polymer chemistry from Cornell University, an MBA from the University of Minnesota, and a bachelor’s degree in chemistry from Peking University. These credentials underscore his technical expertise and business acumen, equipping him to oversee A. O. Smith’s research and development efforts while aligning technology strategy with market demands.

Transition Strategy Ensuring Smooth Leadership Change

To maintain continuity, Bob Heideman will remain with the company through the summer to support Cheng’s leadership transition. This planned overlap ensures that A. O. Smith’s ongoing projects and innovation pipeline continue without disruption. President and CEO Kevin Wheeler highlighted that Cheng’s background in managing diverse R&D teams positions the company well to expand on its foundation of energy-efficient product development.

Conclusion Benefits For Merchants And End Users

For merchants and customers, Ming Cheng’s appointment signals a continued commitment to innovation in water technology products that combine efficiency, reliability, and advanced features. With Cheng’s strong leadership track record and A. O. Smith’s history of product breakthroughs, users can expect enhanced solutions for residential and commercial water heating and treatment needs, backed by proven global research and engineering capabilities.