ASB names board of directors leadership at BakingTECH 2026
The new leadership slate is intended to guide ASB’s educational programs, technical initiatives, and industry advocacy over the coming year as the organization responds to evolving needs across commercial baking and allied sectors.
USA – The American Society of Baking (ASB) has announced its new board of directors, executive officers, and committee leaders for 2026/2027, installed during its Annual Meeting at BakingTECH 2026 in Chicago.
This leadership transition marks a pivotal moment for the century-old organization, which supports the grain-based foods industry through education, networking, and innovation.
ASB Chief Executive Officer Kristen L. Spriggs praised the volunteers’ dedication, stating, “When we say #ASBOnTheRise, we mean it,” highlighting their role in advancing the society’s mission.
Sarah Tsocanos, Senior Manager of R&D, Bakery at The Campbell’s Company, assumes the role of Board Chair.
A Kansas State University Baking Science graduate, Tsocanos credits ASB’s programs for her professional growth.
The executive committee includes 1st Vice Chair Kathy Sargent from Bimbo Bakeries USA; 2nd Vice Chair John Hinds from Cain Food Industries; 3rd Vice Chair Chad Larson from Mel-O-Cream Donuts; Secretary/Treasurer Theresa Watkinson from Aladdin Bakers; and Immediate Past Chair Matt Bowers from New Horizons Baking.
New directors at-large bring fresh perspectives: Charlotte Atchley from Sosland Publishing (term ending 2027), Jim Blum from Bundy Baking Solutions (2029), Edgar Jaramillo from Bimbo Bakeries USA (2029), Rachel Klataske from Nu Life Market (2028), Ashley Robertson from Corbion (2029), and Carter Wands from Miller Milling Company (2029).
Committee chairs cover key areas: Tom McCurry (Cain Food Industries) for Baking Hall of Fame; Amy Estrada (Rademaker USA) for BakingTECH 2027 Planning; Scott McCally (Middleby Bakery) for Commercial Engagement; Eric Kastel (Flowers Foods) for Education; Paul Rainey (Flowers Foods) for Finance & Audit; Rachel Klataske for Membership & Marketing; Sarah Corwin (Ajinomoto) for Product Development Competition; Nicole Barreiro (Middleby Bakery) for Young Professionals; and Lisa Arato (Spiromatic) for Z50 Safety and Sanitation.
ASB, serving bakers, engineers, and suppliers, relies on these volunteers to inform strategic decisions amid industry challenges such as sustainability and workforce development.
The newly named officers and committee chairs will serve as the society advances its calendar of workshops, certification programs, and technical symposia through 2026, with ASB leadership inviting members to engage in committee work as a pathway to influence industry standards and professional development offerings.
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