Ascent Lifting Team
Dee Schweigert
Chief Executive Officer
Dee Schweigert has been with CERTEX for 25 years having joined in 1998 as the Controller for the Western region of the United States. He became part owner of CERTEX USA in 2004 and was appointed Chief Financial Officer. In January 2023, Dee was named CEO of Ascent Lifting in preparation for Ascent’s acquisition of CERTEX USA. Dee graduated from Arizona State University with a Bachelors in Accounting in 1991. He received his CGMA certificate in 2012 and is also a registered CPA.
Sandy Lawrie
President - Ascent Lifting Wholesale Division
Sandy brings extensive leadership experience in operations, compliance, and strategic growth, with a strong track record of building high-performing teams and delivering measurable results. Most recently, she served as General Manager of Advantage Sales & Supply, LLC in Ridgway, PA, where she led key initiatives that improved operational efficiency and supported continued growth. She holds an MBA from SUNY Buffalo and a BS in Chemical Engineering from Penn State University. Sandy is also an active member of two WSTDA committees, reflecting her commitment to industry collaboration and continuous improvement. A people-focused leader, Sandy is passionate about empowering teams, fostering collaboration, and cultivating a culture of accountability and innovation. Outside of work, Sandy is married and the proud mother of three teenagers.
Ted Bartlett
Chief Financial Officer
Ted brings over 20 years of multi-industry experience spanning agriculture, industrial equipment, business services, defense and aerospace manufacturing, consumer-packaged goods, and logistics. A Certified Public Accountant licensed in both Arizona and Ohio, Ted is also a member of the Ohio and Arizona Societies of CPAs. His leadership extends beyond finance—he has served on the board of Acequia Biotechnology in California and currently sits on the advisory board for Sioux Steel Company in South Dakota. Earlier in his career, Ted proudly served our country in the United States Navy aboard the Destroyer USS Spruance (DD-963). A people-focused leader, Ted is passionate about enabling others’ success and supporting both personal and professional growth. His education includes an MBA, BBA in Accounting, and BBA in Finance from Cleveland State University’s Monte Ahuja College of Business.
Barbara Gittens
Vice President, Human Resources
In June 2023, Barbara joined the company with over 20 years of human resources experience. She is a trusted leader with a reputation for developing strategies that impact business results. Prior to joining Ascent Lifting, Barbara was the Director, Global HR Systems and People Services at TEAM, Inc. She has demonstrated success in integrating company cultures during acquisitions and mergers and has a broad background in recruiting, employee relations, and human resources operations. Barbara earned a Master’s in Business Management from Baker University and a Bachelor of Science in Management and Ethics from Manhattan Christian College.
Brett Woodland
Vice President – Corporate Development
With more than 30 years of experience in the rigging and lifting industry, Brett Woodland was appointed Vice President of Corporate Development for Ascent Lifting in 2025. In this role, he leads the company’s growth through acquisitions and strategic partnerships. Previously, Brett served as Vice President of Operations for CERTEX USA. Brett has held several leadership roles throughout his career, including President of Susquehanna Wire Rope & Rigging, Managing Director for CERTEX USA, Vice President of Sales for Associated Wire Rope & Rigging, and Sales Director of Engineered Products for The Crosby Group. He is a past President of AWRF and continues to serve on its Board of Directors and Technical Committee.
Kevin Kammer
Vice President, Sales - Certex
Kevin began his career with CERTEX in 2013 as National Sales Manager. In May 2023 Kevin was promoted to VP Sales for Ascent Lifting. Prior to CERTEX, Kevin had a 15 year career with United Rentals. Kevin graduated from Arkansas State University with a Bachelors in Journalism and a minor in Marketing. Kevin enjoys spending time with his wife and two children.
Jason Potter
Vice President, Operations - CERTEX
Jason brings over 30 years of leadership experience in both retail and wholesale operations. Before joining CERTEX in January 2025, he served as the Director of Regional Distribution for HD Supply, a wholly owned subsidiary of The Home Depot, and held various leadership roles at The Home Depot. His extensive expertise in operational excellence and supply chain management will be invaluable as we continue to grow and enhance our business. A graduate of Arizona State University, Jason holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration.
Robert Jackson
Managing Director
Executive Leadership Team
Meet the Executive Leadership Team of Ascent Lifting, along with our partners from Shorehill Capital. Our internal leadership team offers decades of experience in the rigging industry, prioritizing safety and training in the field. Because of this, we have positioned ourselves as a a reputable name in the rigging world.
Additionally, the collaboration with Shorehill Capital allows us to share success in our value-added mission.