Melling Reorg: Mark Melling, owner of the #92 Kodiak Dodge, borrowed the tag line from Dodge’s ad campaign when he planned his team’s transition to the manufacturer’s Winston Cup program. “We simply had to do something different,” explained Melling. “Being competitive in 2001 is not an option, so we made a number of significant changes to our team over the off-season. Those changes began with the hiring of crew chief Chad Knaus last October. Melling then restructured the management team, and empowered Knaus to reorganize the chain of command in the shop. Melling and Knaus also addressed staffing issues. “We had to adjust our staff to fit our objectives,” explained Knaus. “We outsourced some departments, and we added manpower to other departments. We’ve got a lot of new guys in the shop, and the changes have greatly increased productivity. Plus, the guys are just learning how to work together.” Driver Stacy Compton likes what he sees already. “It’s a night and day difference from before,” said Compton. “There’s no comparison. It’s closer to a brand new team than the old #9 team. As a driver, I’ve never been more excited. I’m ready to go.” And his team is working hard to be ready to go. The Melling team sold off most of their Fords, and they’re building a fleet of brand new Dodges. The shop is full of new chassis waiting for bodies(Melling PR)(1-8-2001)
