ABB Motors president honored as local leader
ABB NEMA motors division president Jesse Henson’s future-forward approach earned him recognition in the Northwest Arkansas Business Journal’s Class of 2025 C-Suite, which honors executives driving innovation across their industries and local communities.
As a North American electric motor manufacturer, ABB sells energy-efficient technology under Henson’s guidance to meet global energy demand and help companies that rely on motor-driven systems.
“Efficiency and innovation steer ABB, but our people make it possible,” Henson said. “Our goal is to advance manufacturing by building the next generation of talent.”
Henson oversees ABB’s strategic initiatives, building on the acquisitions of Siemens’ low-voltage NEMA motor business and Aurora Motors, while advancing investment in research and development to expand the company’s portfolio. In 2025, these efforts produced six new motors, as well as a customer portal that generates real-time updates and communication to provide responsive technical service.
Beyond product innovation, Henson prioritizes workforce development and technical education to ensure long-term industry growth. He established multi-million-dollar partnerships with the Peak Innovation Center, the University of Arkansas–Fort Smith and Arkansas Tech University–Ozark Campus to build hands-on training programs in automation, robotics and advanced manufacturing. ABB also supports local STEAM programs, food drives and provides facility tours to inspire future careers in manufacturing.
Henson joined Arkansas-based Baldor Electric as a sales manager before ABB acquired the manufacturer in 2011.
