Effective March 1, A. O. Smith Regional Vice President John Altepeter transitioned from his position to run his new venture A6 Sales — an independent manufacturers representative agency to serve Tennessee.

A6 Sales will represent the A. O. Smith brand. The two companies plan to work together and leverage relationships to further develop the Tennessee market.

“We’re thrilled for John’s new business venture and that he will continue representing the A. O. Smith family,” said Jim Margoni, A. O. Smith’s senior vice president of sales. “A. O. Smith could not ask for a manufacturing representative with more product knowledge or a stronger commitment to customer service than John, and we know under his leadership A6 will be a successful endeavor.”

With more than a decade of industry experience, Altepeter said he sees opportunity for growth in Tennessee. “There’s a real opportunity in this market for a representative agency that is aggressive in its approach and highly customer-driven,” he said. “My passion always has been working hands-on with contractors to show the benefits and value of the product and this is the perfect way to get back out in the field. A. O. Smith is a great company and I look forward to continuing my relationship with them in this new capacity.”