Dean Borgman, president of Sikorsky Aircraft since 1998, was appointed chairman of the company on Thursday.

Named to succeed him as president is Stephen Finger, who currently serves as president of Pratt & Whitney's Military Engines business. Both appointments begin July 1.

Borgman, 62, will focus on developing new business opportunities and expanding and strengthening relationships with customers worldwide. Under his leadership, Sikorsky has introduced several major new products including the newly certified S-92 helicopter and the MH-60S and MH-60R naval SEAHAWK derivatives, while continuing to develop the stealth COMANCHE reconnaissance helicopter and beginning a major remanufacturing program for U.S. Army BLACK HAWK helicopters.

"Dean's contributions have been significant," said George David, chairman and chief executive officer for United Technologies Corp., parent of both Sikorsky and Pratt & Whitney. "Under his leadership, Sikorsky has received extraordinary and well-deserved recognition including the Collier Trophy for the S-92's safety and quality enhancements certified to the most stringent FAA standards and unmatched by competitors."

Commenting on Finger's appointment, David said, "Steve has a history of active and effective relationships with government and other customers, and his demonstrated skills at managing engineering, operations, and programs will lead Sikorsky exceptionally well at a critical time."

Finger, 54, has worked at Pratt & Whitney for more than 33 years. In addition to leading the Military Engines business, he currently serves as executive vice president for engineering and operations at Pratt & Whitney. Under his leadership, the company developed the highly successful Joint Strike Fighter (F135), F117 and F119 (right) engine programs. Succeeding him as Military Engines president is Thomas Farmer, 56, who currently serves as vice president of the JSF engine program.

Finger will report directly to David and join the UTC Presidents Council. He holds a bachelor of science degree in aerospace engineering from the University of Virginia and a master of science degree in management from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

FMI: www.sikorsky.com; www.utc.com