Titanium Institute appoints first woman president

Dawne S Hickton, vice chair, president and CEO of titanium powder producer RTI International.
Dawne S Hickton, vice chair, president and CEO of titanium powder producer RTI International.

Following her appointment, Hickton said she would like to help other women develop careers in the global titanium industry and plans to establish a “Women in Titanium” committee as a way to inspire them to consider leadership roles in the titanium industry. 

There are also plans to develop a “Women in Titanium” programme including a scholarship fund and regional mentoring programmes.

Hickton became the CEO of RTI in April 2007 and serves as a member of RTI’s board of directors. In her role she has guided RTI’s strategic transformation from a manufacturer of titanium mill product to an integrated, value-added supplier of titanium parts and engineered structures, serving supply chains throughout diverse international markets.

Top leader 

Prior to joining RTI, she was employed at USX Corp, Pittsburgh, and was assistant professor of Clinical Law at the University of Pittsburgh. 

Last year, she was tapped as one of the “top 100 CEOs leaders” in the United States to support 21st Century STEM learning and workforce development.