Ernie Litynski & Jim Kornfeld to Lead State’s Preeminent Defense Industry Advocate
MADISON – The Wisconsin Defense Industry Council (WDIC), the state’s foremost advocate for the state’s defense industry sector, has named a new chair, RBP Chemical President Ernie Litynsky, and vice chair, Strohwig President and CEO Jim Kornfeld.
In addition to serving as president of RBP Chemical, Litynski has a long history of leadership at General Electric, Master Lock and his own personal distribution and Lean Six Sigma consulting business. He also served as a Major General in the U.S. Army Reserves as Commanding General for the 76th Operational Command, overseeing 6,000 soldiers and civilians throughout the U.S. He served multiple combat tours in Iraq and Afghanistan, earning the Bronze Star Medal.
“It is an honor to serve as chairman of the Wisconsin Defense Industry Council. Our state has a proud tradition of innovation and manufacturing, and the defense sector plays a critical role in that tradition,” said Litynski. “I look forward to working alongside our partners to strengthen collaboration, advance cutting-edge capabilities and ensure Wisconsin remains a trusted leader in securing our country and its interests.”
Kornfeld has more than 30 years of management and executive experience in the manufacturing, service and private equity segments. Before joining Strohwig, a leader in the manufacturing of larger-scale parts for military weapons and systems, Kornfeld served as president and CEO of PAX Holdings, president and CEO of Sucor LLC and president and CEO of Sharp Packaging Systems. He also serves on various corporate and community boards, with emphasis on strategic development, analytics and diversity. He earned his bachelor’s degree in business administration from Marquette University.
“It’s a privilege to step into the role of vice chair at WDIC. Wisconsin’s defense ecosystem – from large employers to small, specialized suppliers – has the talent and capacity to deliver mission‑critical solutions,” said Kornfeld. “I look forward to advancing collaboration that accelerates innovation, grows our workforce and expands our national reputation as a partner in national security.”
Business leaders from around the state are applauding the choices for leadership of the WDIC.
“Both of these men have a proven ability to lead, which will be invaluable as we work to strengthen Wisconsin’s role in supporting our nation’s defense,” said Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce President and CEO Dale Kooyenga.
“Ernie and Jim bring exceptional experience and vision to the WDIC,” said Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce President & CEO Kurt Bauer. “Their leadership will strengthen collaboration across our state’s defense sector and ensure Wisconsin continues to play a critical role in supporting national security.”
WDIC was formed in conjunction with Wisconsin Manufacturers & Commerce (WMC) and the Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce (MMAC) to strengthen and support Wisconsin’s defense industry through collaborative advocacy, information sharing and networking. In 2024, Wisconsin ranked 29th in total defense spending and 38th in defense spending as a share of GDP.
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