FORT COLLINS — Woodward Governor Co. (Nasdaq:WGOV) has named Thomas A. Gendron president and chief operating officer effective immediately.

Gendron is the former vice president and industrial controls manager for the company. In his new position, Gendron will be responsible for global Woodward operations including the implementation of business strategies and technological integration across the company.

Woodward designs, manufactures and services energy control systems and components for aircraft and industrial engines, turbines and other power equipment. The company’s aircraft engine systems division is based in Rockford, Ill. but the company operates its industrial controls division in Fort Collins and Loveland. The Fort Collins and Loveland facilities employ 767 people.

“The Fort Collins facility won’t feel an immediate impact,´ said Angela Hartley, director of investor relations and global communications for Woodward. “Tom’s role is global. All the operations will report to him.”