Del West Engineering, Inc., has appointed Charles H. Jenckes to the position of chief technology officer for the company, which designs and manufacturers lightweight valve train components and systems, and is the largest supplier of titanium valves for racing world-wide. The company also supplies its lightweight valves to automobile and motorcycle manufacturers, for high performance, series-production vehicle applications. 

Mr. Jenckes has two masters degrees in mechanical engineering, and is broadly experienced in motor racing. He has worked in engine and fuel research at both the OEM and supplier levels, has completed leading-edge work in the mathematical modeling of high performance four-stroke engines, and is the author of numerous articles and technical papers. He has contributed to championships in IMSA, NHRA and NASCAR Cup racing, and most recently served as technical director for Dale Earnhardt, Inc.'s engine department. He is a member of the Society of Automotive Engineers and the Society of Manufacturing Engineers. 

In his new capacity, Mr. Jenckes will play an integral role in developing Del West's strategic direction and future growth, in addition to providing engineering direction for new products. He will also oversee the company's research and development programs. 

Del West, headquartered in Valencia, California, and operates a design and manufacturing facility in Roche, Switzerland. The company's products are extensively used in racing from Sprint Car and NASCAR Cup racing to Formula 1. Collectively, Del West's facilities encompass 90,000 square feet, and the company employs nearly 300 people in research, design and manufacturing.