FMSI Announces New Board, Subscription Program

The Friction Materials Standards Institute (FMSI) has concluded another successful FMSI® Brake Weekend™ in Naples, Florida. The event served as a platform for major announcements, including the appointment of the 2025/26 Board of Directors, the launch of a new data subscription service, and the recognition of key industry contributors.

Key Highlights:

FMSI® announced its 2025/26 Board of Directors and Officers, with Skip Carroll of Momentum USA Inc. appointed as Chairman of the Board.
A new fee-based subscription program will launch on July 1st, offering wider access to FMSI’s comprehensive data.
Jesus Villalobos of DFC received the top contributing member award for his significant data contributions to the organization.
FMSI® announced future collaborations with S&P Global and Epicor to enhance data synergy.

Successful Brake Weekend™ and Future Dates

The annual FMSI® Brake Weekend™ brought together industry leaders, members, and sponsors for a successful event at the LaPlaya resort in Naples, Florida. FMSI® extended its gratitude to all attendees, guest speakers, and sponsors who contributed to the event’s success. The organization is already looking ahead and has announced that the next FMSI® Brake Weekend™ is scheduled for May 29-31, 2026.

New Leadership for 2025/26

FMSI® has officially named its Board of Directors for the 2025/26 term. The board consists of experienced professionals from leading companies in the friction materials industry:

Steve Bird: NuCap Industries
Bill Carney: FDP Virginia
Rafael Di Buono: Frasle Mobility
Skip Carroll: Momentum USA Inc.
Earl Gesch: Masu Brakes
Jason Lang: ADVICS North America
Mark Phipps: Robert Bosch
Enrique Orozco: ITT Friction
Greg Vyletel: First Brands Group

The newly appointed officers include Skip Carroll as Chairman of the Board, Frank Oliveto as President, Jason Lang as 1st Vice Chair, Greg Vyletel as 2nd Vice Chair, Steve Bird as Treasurer, and Rafael Di Buono as Secretary.

Member Contributions and New Initiatives

During the event, FMSI® honored Jesus Villalobos of DFC with the top contributing member award. This award is presented to the individual who supplies the most new shapes and general data to the institute, a vital contribution that keeps the FMSI database current and comprehensive.

A major announcement was the rollout of a new fee-based subscription program, set to begin on July 1st. Chairman Skip Carroll described it as a “great program” that will provide access to valuable FMSI data for all who wish to subscribe.

Furthermore, FMSI revealed plans for deeper collaboration with S&P Global and Epicor. Chairman Carroll stated that the details of these partnerships will be announced once the formal agreements are signed, signaling a strategic move to improve data integration across the industry.

About FMSI® and How to Join

Founded in 1948, the Friction Materials Standards Institute is a trade organization that established the standard part numbering system for brake and clutch facings. Companies interested in becoming annual subscribers or learning more about joining FMSI® can contact Garrett Oliveto, General Manager, at [email protected].