Ming Cheng is the Senior Vice President and Chief Technology Officer at A.O. Smith Corporation, a global leader in water heating, water treatment, and purification technologies. In this pivotal role, he directs the company's worldwide research, development, and engineering operations, spearheading innovation to deliver energy-efficient, connected, and sustainable products. Cheng's leadership focuses on integrating advanced technologies like IoT, AI, and heat pump systems to enhance product performance, reduce environmental impact, and meet stringent global standards, positioning A.O. Smith at the forefront of the water technology industry. With over 25 years of experience in engineering and R&D, Cheng joined A.O. Smith in 2010 after holding senior positions at General Electric Appliances and Johnson Controls, where he led teams in developing next-generation HVAC and appliance technologies. At A.O. Smith, his achievements include the successful launch of the award-winning Voltex® heat pump water heater series, which revolutionized energy efficiency in residential water heating, and the expansion of smart, connected water solutions. Under his guidance, the company has earned numerous patents, industry accolades such as ENERGY STAR® recognition, and significant market share growth through innovative platforms like the Neptune™ garage water heater. Cheng holds a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from Purdue University and a Bachelor's degree from Tsinghua University in Beijing. His visionary approach emphasizes sustainability and digital transformation, driving A.O. Smith's commitment to solving global water challenges while fostering a culture of continuous innovation.