Collins & Aikman Names James W. Wynalek Chief Technology Officer

TROY, Mich., March 13 -- Frank Macher, President and Chief Executive Officer of Collins & Aikman Corporation (CKCRQ) announced today the recent appointment of James Wynalek as Executive Vice President and Chief Technology Officer for the North American automotive supplier. In this new position, Wynalek will direct and oversee all research, engineering, development and design activities for the Company.

Wynalek joins Collins & Aikman from Dell Computer, most recently serving as Vice President Product Engineering and Quality for Dell Americas Operations where he was responsible for new product introduction (NPI), process engineering, and test and quality operations across all North and South American manufacturing facilities. Wynalek brings more than 28 years of production design, manufacturing, and business development experience to the Company.

"Jim's ability to understand the multi-faceted pieces of the engineering side of our business will provide C&A great insight as we implement a sound business strategy for achieving technological advancements in our areas of expertise," Macher said. "Jim will lead our advanced engineering efforts with an emphasis on speed to market, new customer valued features, low-cost manufacturing, and flawless program execution, providing competitive advantages for Collins & Aikman."

Prior to his experience at Dell, Wynalek held senior positions at Visteon Corporation and Ford Motor Company. Highlights of Wynalek's extensive career in the auto sector include roles as the VP/GM of two Visteon business units as well as executive positions at Ford Motor Company in product design, manufacturing and European operations. Wynalek holds a Master of Business Administration from Eastern Michigan University and a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Detroit.

Collins & Aikman Corporation is a leader in cockpit modules and automotive floor and acoustic systems and is a leading supplier of instrument panels, automotive fabric, plastic-based trim, and convertible top systems. The Company is headquartered in Troy, Michigan. Additional information about Collins & Aikman is available on the Internet at http://www.collinsaikman.com/.