Kelso Technologies Announces CEO and Director Changes

Longtime Lead Director Jesse Crews Appointed as New CEO, Supported by Experienced Leadership Team

Apr. 17, 2026 at 3:22pm

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A minimalist studio still life photograph featuring a polished metal gear, a sleek black rail car valve, and a stack of financial documents, symbolizing the corporate strategy and operations of Kelso Technologies.The leadership transition at Kelso Technologies signals a renewed focus on operational excellence and strategic execution in the rail equipment industry.Bonham Today

Kelso Technologies Inc. today announced that Frank Busch has resigned from his positions as President, Chief Executive Officer, and Director of the company, effective April 16, 2026. The Board of Directors has appointed Jesse Crews, previously serving as Lead Director, as the new Chief Executive Officer. The company also announced other leadership changes, including Mark Temen assuming the role of Lead Director and Paul Cass rejoining the Board as an Independent Director.

Why it matters

These leadership changes at Kelso Technologies come at a critical time for the company as it navigates challenges in the rail industry, including tariffs, high interest rates, inflation, and supply chain issues. The new leadership team, with its deep industry experience and familiarity with Kelso's operations, is expected to provide stability and continuity as the company executes on its strategic priorities.

The details

Frank Busch, the outgoing CEO, is credited with leading Kelso through a pivotal transition period and returning the company to profitability. The Board expressed gratitude for his service and noted that he will remain available to the company in an independent consulting capacity during the transition. Jesse Crews, the new CEO, has a strong background in the rail industry and operational leadership. He will be supported by an experienced leadership team, including Amanda Smith as Chief Operating Officer and Sameer Uplenchwar as Chief Financial Officer. The Board also welcomed back Paul Cass, a former Lead Director, to provide additional institutional knowledge and expertise.

  • Frank Busch resigned from his positions on April 16, 2026.
  • The new leadership team, including Jesse Crews as CEO, was appointed effective immediately.

The players

Frank Busch

The former President, Chief Executive Officer, and Director of Kelso Technologies Inc., who has resigned from these positions effective April 16, 2026.

Jesse Crews

The new Chief Executive Officer of Kelso Technologies Inc., previously serving as the Lead Director on the Board of Directors.

Mark Temen

The new Lead Director of Kelso Technologies Inc., previously serving as an Independent Director and Audit Committee Chair.

Paul Cass

A former Lead Director of Kelso Technologies Inc., who has agreed to rejoin the Board of Directors in the capacity of Independent Director.

Amanda Smith

The Chief Operating Officer of Kelso Technologies Inc., who will be supporting the new Office of the CEO.

Sameer Uplenchwar

The Chief Financial Officer of Kelso Technologies Inc., who will be supporting the new Office of the CEO.

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What they’re saying

“Frank demonstrated principled leadership during a pivotal period in the Company's history and made meaningful contributions to returning Kelso to profitability. The Board extends its sincere gratitude and wishes him every success in his future pursuits.”

— Jesse Crews, Lead Director

“It has been an honor to lead Kelso Technologies Inc. through this period of transition and to work alongside such a dedicated team. This role has been a defining chapter in my career, and I am proud of what we have collectively achieved. I am grateful for the guidance and mentorship of the Board, and I am confident the Company is well positioned for continued success.”

— Frank Busch

“Jesse brings a deep understanding of the rail industry and a proven track record of operational leadership. His familiarity with Kelso's business, combined with the strength of the Office of the CEO structure, gives the Board great confidence that the Company will maintain its momentum and continue executing on its strategic priorities.”

— Mark Temen, Incoming Lead Director

“We are truly pleased to welcome Paul back. His institutional knowledge of Kelso and its operations is invaluable, and his return reflects a shared commitment to the Company's long-term success. The Board is stronger for having him at the table.”

— Mark Temen, Incoming Lead Director

What’s next

The company confirms that this leadership transition does not affect its previously disclosed financial guidance or strategic direction. The incoming CEO, Jesse Crews, will work closely with the experienced leadership team to ensure a smooth and orderly transition.

The takeaway

Kelso Technologies is navigating a challenging period in the rail industry, but the new leadership team, with its deep industry expertise and familiarity with the company's operations, is well-positioned to guide the company through this transition and continue executing on its strategic priorities. The return of a former director also provides additional institutional knowledge and continuity during this change.