Strong leadership continues to drive the success of our Bonanza operations, and we’re building on that by expanding the role of a key member of our team. Ty Kissel has been promoted to Deputy General Manager of our Bonanza Operations.

In this role, Ty will continue to lead our Processing & Manufacturing operations while also supporting the broader day-to-day needs and long-term initiatives at Bonanza.

“Ty brings a strong combination of leadership experience and technical expertise to this role,” says Dave Clark, President of American Gilsonite Company. “His understanding of our processing and manufacturing operations, along with his ability to lead teams and drive results, makes him a valuable addition to the leadership structure at Bonanza.”

Ty has played a key role in overseeing processing and manufacturing operations in Bonanza, helping drive efficiency, product quality and coordination across teams. Since joining the company in 2011, he has been a key contributor to developing closer alignment between plant operations, product delivery, and strategic business objectives. His expanded responsibilities will further build on that foundation, supporting continued operational success.

“I didn’t get here on my own. There are a lot of people who took the time to teach me and push me along the way,” said Ty Kissel. “Stepping into this role is something I take seriously. Supporting our workforce and making sure they have what they need to be successful is a top priority. I understand the bigger picture and believe the best results come when our people and our goals are working together.”

We appreciate Ty’s continued leadership and contributions to our operations and look forward to the impact he will make in this expanded role.

We’re proud to announce the promotion of Mike Kelsey to General Manager of our Bonanza Operations, marking an incredible 20+ year journey with the company. 

“I’m extremely pleased that Mike has stepped into this key role at American Gilsonite Company,” says Dave Clark, President of American Gilsonite Company. “Mike has been instrumental in the successful execution of several critical projects in recent years and his extensive knowledge of our mining operations adds tremendous value to our capabilities and brand.” 

Over the past two decades, Mike has built a reputation for integrity, hard work and leadership, earning the trust and respect of colleagues and partners along the way.

“Working at this company and alongside the people here has meant a great deal to me throughout my career. After 22 years with the company, starting underground as a miner, I’m honored to now serve as General Manager of Bonanza Operations. I’m grateful for the trust placed in me and for the many coworkers, mentors and partners whose support and respect have meant so much along the way. This operation succeeds because of the people who show up every day and do the work the right way, and I’m proud to be part of that team. The American Gilsonite Company has a long and proud history, and I’m honored to have my name associated with the people and the work that carry its legacy forward,” said Mike Kelsey

With extensive experience across our day-to-day operations, Mike brings invaluable knowledge and a deep commitment to his new role as General Manager. Please join us in congratulating Mike on this well-earned promotion and milestone achievement!