For 2024, CoatingsPro Magazine is welcoming two new subject matter experts (SMEs) to the magazine’s Editorial Advisory Group (EAG): Julie LeBeau of Rapid Prep and Kevin Oberle of KEEN Utility. 

They are joining three previous group members from 2023: Katie Hunt, director of marketing for Gray; Eric Nenninger, founding partner of 62Archer Inspection and Consulting; and Emma Schilling, senior brand manager for Holcim’s Elevate brand in the building envelope division. This CoatingsPro article from January 2023 offers background information on those three SMEs. 

We are also thrilled to continue to have our magazine’s perennial safety guru, Charles Brown of Greenman Pederson, Inc., serving on the EAG.

The new EAG experts are: 

Julie LeBeau, Marketing Director for Rapid Prep

Julie LeBeau is the marketing director at Rapid Prep, a full-service provider of surface preparation equipment, including media blasting equipment sales and rental. Having previously worked in the toy industry, LeBeau brings her own flair and creativity into marketing campaigns. 

She is actively involved in industry associations, such as the Association for Materials Protection and Performance (AMPP), and she holds the New England chapter membership activity chair seat. LeBeau is also the MegaRust live demonstration chair. 

Kevin Oberle, Senior Director of Global Insights & Engagement at KEEN Utility

Kevin Oberle spent almost two decades at Nike before bringing his brand acumen to KEEN Utility in 2022. He is now the senior director of Global Insights & Engagement at KEEN Utility, a values-driven footwear brand. 

KEEN Utility footwear is grounded in protection, with the goal to make boots to fit you better.

For more information, contact: CoatingsPro Magazine, (858) 768-0825, www.coatingspromag.com