A O Smith Announces New CTO Ming Cheng
A: O. Smith Corp. has appointed Ming Cheng as its next chief technology officer, effective July 7,
2025. Cheng will succeed Bob Heideman, who is retiring after more than 30 years with the Milwaukee-based water technology company. This leadership change marks a significant transition as Cheng brings extensive experience from 3M Co., where he served as senior vice president of research and development for the transportation and electronics business group. His 25-year tenure at 3M included technical leadership roles across the U. S. and China, covering automotive, electronics, and advanced materials sectors.
Cheng’s Role in Driving Global Technology Strategy
At A. O. Smith, Ming Cheng will oversee global research, product engineering, and the company’s long-term technology strategy. This follows Bob Heideman’s influential tenure as CTO since 2013, during which he helped develop energy-efficient products such as heat pump water heaters and advanced water filtration systems. Cheng’s background leading complex R&D organizations positions him well to build on this foundation. According to A. O. Smith’s president and CEO Kevin Wheeler, Cheng’s appointment ensures the company remains competitive in global technology innovation, especially as it manufactures residential and commercial water heaters, boilers, and water treatment products.

Comparing Leadership Experience Between Cheng and Heideman
Bob Heideman joined A. O. Smith in 1994 and progressed from project engineer to CTO, leading the Corporate Technology Center in Milwaukee. Under his leadership, the company launched key innovations that contributed to its market leadership in water technology. In contrast, Ming Cheng’s career at 3M involved managing research and development across multiple industries with a focus on transportation and electronics, areas that contributed to 3M’s $35 billion annual revenue. Cheng holds a Ph. D. in polymer chemistry from Cornell University and an MBA from the University of Minnesota, bringing both technical expertise and business acumen. This combination offers A. O. Smith a fresh perspective on integrating advanced materials and electronics into water technology products.

Pros and Cons of Cheng’s Appointment for A O Smith
One clear advantage of Cheng’s appointment is his broad global experience, which includes managing R&D teams in both the U. S. and China. This international perspective is crucial as A. O. Smith seeks to expand its global footprint in water technology. Furthermore, Cheng’s expertise in polymers and advanced materials could accelerate innovation in product durability and energy efficiency. On the downside, transitioning from a diversified conglomerate like 3M to a specialized water technology firm may require a period of adaptation. However, Cheng’s strong technical leadership record and MBA background suggest he is well-equipped to navigate these challenges and continue A. O. Smith’s legacy of innovation.

Heideman’s Legacy and Transition Support
Bob Heideman’s retirement marks the end of an era for A. O. Smith. With over 30 years at the company, his contributions include developing energy-efficient water heating solutions and strengthening the company’s global technology capabilities. Heideman will remain with the company through the summer to support a smooth leadership transition, ensuring continuity for ongoing projects. This overlap period is critical in maintaining stability as Cheng assumes responsibility for shaping the company’s future technology roadmap.

Conclusion on A O Smith’s Technology Leadership Shift
The appointment of Ming Cheng as CTO represents a strategic move by A. O. Smith to leverage global R&D expertise and accelerate innovation in water technology. With Cheng’s proven leadership at 3M managing complex technical teams and Heideman’s legacy of product innovation, A. O. Smith is well positioned to sustain growth and enhance its global competitiveness. This leadership change comes at a time when energy efficiency and advanced materials are key drivers in the water heating and treatment markets, making Cheng’s technical and business credentials especially relevant.
