In a move to “build deep engagement and strong relationships” with consultants and dealer designers, ITW Food Equipment Group will bring together a trio of company veterans in a new unit. The group will be known as the ITW Total Kitchen Solutions Project & Design Team, effective January 2026.

Dan Montgomery, previously director of design and project business at Vulcan; Laura Gutkowski, previously director of marketing at Traulsen; and Shayne Varnum, previously director, consultant services, and government sales for the ITW Food Equipment Group, will each serve as director, design and consultant support. Montgomery will cover the Western U.S.; Gutkowski will be responsible for the Central U.S.; and Varnum will cover the Eastern U.S.

Together, they will represent the portfolio of brands and product categories across ITW Food Equipment Group — including Hobart, Vulcan, Traulsen, Baxter and Gaylord.

“Throughout their dedicated regions, these directors will work closely with our partners to provide the tools needed to quickly and confidently make critical decisions related to equipment selection and specification spanning the entire kitchen and dishroom,” said Gary Simpson, senior vice president of U.S. sales for ITW Food Equipment Group.