After more than 40 years of service to Hawthorne Army Depot and the surrounding community, Day & Zimmermann is preparing to begin its next chapter at the depot with the appointment of Vince Costello as General Manager.
Costello will lead the company’s transition and long-term operations at Hawthorne, bringing more than three decades of his operational leadership experience across complex logistics, warehousing and distribution environments. As General Manager, he will help build and guide a safe, capable, and connected workforce prepared to support the depot’s mission for years to come.
“Vince will drive the operational experience, leadership discipline, and people-first approach needed to lead Hawthorne into its next chapter,” said Rick Nesbitt, former and acting General Manager, Hawthorne, Day & Zimmermann. “He understands how to build strong teams, establish accountability, and fortify trust through consistent communication. Just as important, Vince recognizes the importance of Hawthorne to the employees, families, and communities who support this mission. I am confident he will build on the strong foundation already in place to help move the depot forward.”
A U.S. Navy veteran, Costello served four years as an aviation electrician, before building a career leading complex operations. His experience includes operational strategy, safety, continuous improvement, labor relations, workforce development, and team leadership. His approach emphasizes clear expectations, open communication and ensuring employees understand how their work contributes to the larger mission.
“I am honored to lead Day & Zimmermann’s work at Hawthorne Army Depot,” said Costello. “This is an important mission, and I am committed to listening, building lasting relationships and working alongside our employees, partners, and the Hawthorne community to strengthen the depot for the future.”
Day & Zimmermann is actively advancing hiring, workforce engagement, training and operational readiness ahead of the planned transition to the company as prime contractor. The company is working with the U.S. Army, employees, unions, partners—including Akima—and community leaders to establish a safe, sustainable and mission-ready operation.
D&Z’s commitment to Hawthorne is grounded in more than four decades of experience and continuity, having safely supported a broad range of munitions operations, depot services, and demilitarization activities. Building on that trusted past, D&Z is focused on creating a dynamic future.
Learn more about Day & Zimmermann’s commitment to Hawthorne on the Day & Zimmermann Returns to Hawthorne webpage.
