W.T. Bigbee Named President of Wire Association International
The W.T. Bigbee Wire Association International president appointment signals a strong step forward for the organization’s leadership. The Wire Association International (WAI) appointed W.T. Bigbee as president for a one-year term beginning January 1, 2019. He also serves as chairman of the Board of Directors, becoming the 66th president of the Madison, Connecticut-based organization.
W.T. Bigbee Wire Association International President Leadership
Bigbee brings more than 31 years of experience in the wire and cable industry. He joined WAI in 2011 and continues to play an active leadership role. During his term, he serves on the Conference Programming Committee, Exhibition Planning Committee, and Oversight Committee, while also contributing to the Board of Directors.
Steven Fetteroll, Executive Director of WAI, highlighted Bigbee’s leadership and industry insight. He pointed to Bigbee’s understanding of Industry 4.0, lean manufacturing, and evolving workforce demands. These insights help guide WAI initiatives, including the Next Generation theme for the Interwire 2019 Conference and the creation of a plant manager’s forum.
Learn more about WAI at https://www.wirenet.org
Role at Encore Wire Corporation
Bigbee serves as Vice President of Operations at Encore Wire Corporation, where he leads technical and production operations and drives new product development.
During his 21-year tenure at Encore Wire, he has held several leadership roles:
- Director of Technical Operations and Product Engineering
- Plant Manager and Quality Control Leader
- Process Engineering Manager
Before joining Encore Wire in 1997, Bigbee worked at Capital Wire/General Cable for 10 years, where he advanced into process engineering.
Visit Encore Wire at https://www.encorewire.com
W.T. Bigbee Wire Association International President Industry Impact
Bigbee plays an active role in multiple industry organizations. He contributes to:
- Aluminum Association
- Canadian Standards Association
- Copper Development Association
- National Armored Cable Manufacturers Association
- National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA)
- National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)
- NEMA-UL Technical Forum
These roles reinforce his commitment to advancing industry standards, innovation, and technical excellence across the wire and cable sector.
WAI Executive Committee for 2019
WAI operates through a global network of volunteers. The 2019 executive committee includes:
- First Vice President: Jan Sørige, Enkotec Co. Inc.
- Second Vice President: Tom Heberling, Southwire Co. LLC
- Executive Committee Members: Daniel Blais (Prysmian), James R. York (Insteel Industries)
- Immediate Past President: Richard T. Wagner, Insteel Wire Products
About Wire Association International
Founded in 1930, WAI is a not-for-profit association with more than 2,000 members in 54 countries. The organization supports the wire and cable manufacturing industry through education, events, and publications.
Key offerings include:
- Interwire Trade Exhibition
- WAI Operations Summit & Wire Expo
- Wire Journal International
- Wire Journal International Reference Guide
- WIRE BULLETIN
Explore more at https://www.wirenet.org
Media Contacts
Steven J. Fetteroll, Executive Director
Email: sfetteroll@wirenet.org | Phone: +1-203-453-1777
Janice E. Swindells, Director of Marketing & Corporate Communications
Email: jswindells@wirenet.org | Phone: +1-203-453-2777 ext. 117
