Mr. Kaufman joined SAE in 1976, and in his 32 years with the organization, he provided his dedicated service and expertise to numerous divisions. Mr. Kaufman’s tenure included work in the Engineering Group, Engineering Meetings Division, Technical Standards & Research Division, and most recently as the commercial vehicle business director, managing director of the SAE Institute, and chief technical officer.
An active member of the standards community, Mr. Kaufman was highly regarded in the industry. He frequently worked with ANSI members and staff through meetings of the Council of Engineering and Scientific Society Executives (CESSE) and the Standards Engineering Society (SES). Mr. Kaufman often moderated and put together panels for both events.
In addition to his work at SAE, Mr. Kaufman was a former chief and president of the Valencia Volunteer Fire Department in Pennsylvania, and guided the merger of two local fire departments to form the Adams Area Fire District. He was an avid volunteer worker in his community, acting as an Adams Township supervisor and a member of the Parks and Recreation Committee and Zoning Hearing Board. Mr. Kaufman also served in the Army Reserve for six years.
“SAE International and its family of employees and members have lost a friend,” said David L. Schutt, PhD, executive vice president and chief operating officer at SAE. “Herb Kaufman was the consummate professional, but his reach went far beyond that. At work he was a mentor and role model to many. At home, he was a devoted father, husband and community member.
“His legacy at SAE International is long and significant. His work with standards development set a benchmark for excellence that will help ensure quality work for many years to come. He had a passion for his job, and that passion showed in everything he did; the noble profession of engineering is better because of him. Herb will be missed by all who knew and worked with him, especially his friends here at SAE International.”
Mr. Kaufman is survived by his wife, Rosella Gnagnarelli Kaufman, his daughter, Jessica McDonough, and his brother, Barry Kaufman.
Herb’s life was honored on Friday, January 30, by family and friends at a memorial service held by the Adams Area Fire District. Funeral services were held on Saturday, January 31.