Meet The Staff
Robert Charlton
Founder | AMD Industries Inc. & Barbara Jean Coal Company Brownsville, PA
Robert Charlton was the visionary founder of AMD Industries Inc. and a pioneer in Pennsylvania’s environmental and industrial sectors. With a remarkable background in engineering and public service, Robert dedicated his life to solving complex problems with innovation, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to his community.
Born and raised in Brownsville, Pennsylvania, where he resided for nearly his entire life, Robert earned a Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering and a Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering from West Virginia University. During his time there, he also proudly served in the United States Air Force, which instilled in him the leadership, discipline, and technical expertise that would become the foundation of his career.
In 1977, Robert founded Barbara Jean Coal Company, laying the groundwork for what would become a family legacy. He later established AMD Industries Inc., a company that quickly gained recognition for its specialized work in acid mine drainage treatment, excavation, construction, and water infrastructure. Robert’s forward-thinking approach and deep care for environmental sustainability helped shape the company’s core mission and long-standing reputation for excellence.
Robert was the proud father of two children with Margaret Kosker: Donald E. Charlton and Lynn Charlton DeFranco, both of whom hold pivotal roles within AMD Industries and continue to carry out his vision. He was also a devoted grandfather to five grandchildren and great-grandfather to three great-grandchildren, all of whom share in the family’s strong sense of purpose and pride.
Robert Charlton passed away in 2002, but his legacy remains the cornerstone of AMD Industries Inc. His life’s work, driven by education, service, entrepreneurship, and family, continues to inspire the company and community he helped build.
John DeFranco
President
John DeFranco is the President of AMD Industries Inc., where he leads the company with over three decades of hands-on experience and strategic vision. Since taking over the business in 2008, John has played a pivotal role in transforming AMD into a regional leader in water treatment and environmental services—growing the company to four times its original size under his leadership.
John earned a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from East Carolina University, where he developed the analytical and business foundation that would later support his executive success. In 1994, he made the move from New Jersey to Coal Center, Pennsylvania, to be with his wife and start a family—a decision that also marked the beginning of his deep, personal commitment to AMD Industries.
John is the son-in-law of Robert Charlton, the founder of AMD Industries Inc. He spent 15 years working in the field for the company before becoming President, gaining invaluable experience across every level of operations. His ground-up knowledge continues to influence his leadership style, focused on quality, compliance, and employee growth.
With a legacy rooted in family and a vision focused on the future, John brings dedication, innovation, and integrity to every aspect of AMD’s continued success.
Donald Charlton
Vice President| AMD Industries Inc.
Donald Charlton is a long-standing and respected member of the AMD Industries Inc. team, known for his deep technical knowledge, hands-on expertise, and unwavering commitment to excellence. Based in California, Pennsylvania, Donald has dedicated many years to the company’s success, contributing to some of its most critical field operations and infrastructure projects.
As the oldest son of AMD Industries’ founder, Robert Charlton, Donald carries forward his father’s legacy with pride and purpose. His connection to the company is deeply personal—shaped by decades of experience and a strong sense of responsibility to uphold the standards and values established by his family.
Donald is widely recognized for his expertise in water treatment systems, mechanical troubleshooting, and day-to-day plant operations. His ability to diagnose and resolve complex on-site challenges makes him an invaluable asset to AMD’s mission of delivering reliable and compliant environmental solutions. Colleagues and clients alike appreciate his steady presence, problem-solving skills, and willingness to mentor the next generation of technicians.
A true team player with a long-term dedication to AMD, Donald Charlton continues to embody the values of trust, reliability, and craftsmanship that have driven the company forward for decades.
Jenna Dwyer
Executive Assistant & Marketing Manager
Jenna Dwyer serves as the Executive Assistant and Marketing Manager at AMD Industries Inc., where she plays a key role in supporting leadership operations and driving the company’s marketing strategy. With a sharp eye for detail and a creative mindset, Jenna manages internal communications, customer engagement, and branding initiatives that showcase AMD’s expertise in water treatment and environmental services.
She earned a dual Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration and Marketing from West Virginia University, graduating in December 2024. Her academic background gives her a strong foundation in organizational management, consumer behavior, and strategic planning—skills she applies daily to elevate AMD’s presence both in the field and online.
Jenna is the granddaughter of Robert Charlton, the founder of AMD Industries Inc., and the daughter of John and Lynn DeFranco, who serve as the company’s President and Secretary. She proudly continues her family’s legacy, blending tradition with innovation to help move AMD forward in a changing industry.
Known for her strong work ethic and commitment to excellence, Jenna is passionate about highlighting the work AMD does across Pennsylvania and beyond. She brings energy, professionalism, and forward-thinking ideas to every project.
John T. DeFranco
Comptroller | AMD Industries Inc.
John T. DeFranco serves as Comptroller at AMD Industries Inc., where he oversees the company’s financial operations, budget planning, and long-term fiscal strategy. A graduate of California University of Pennsylvania, John earned his degree in Business Finance, equipping him with a strong foundation in financial management and operational efficiency.
The second child of John and Lynn DeFranco, John is also the grandson of AMD Industries’ founder, Robert Charlton. He proudly carries forward the legacy of dedication, innovation, and integrity that has shaped the company’s identity. In 2024, following the birth of his daughter Isabella, John stepped into the expanded role of Comptroller with a renewed sense of purpose and commitment to the future of the business. His transition into this role marked a new chapter—blending his financial expertise with a deeply rooted personal connection to the company’s mission.
John’s leadership style is grounded in collaboration, accountability, and strategic foresight. He is focused on modernizing AMD’s financial systems, improving reporting processes, and ensuring fiscal sustainability across all divisions. As AMD continues to grow and diversify, John’s steady guidance ensures the company remains agile and prepared to meet future challenges while honoring its strong family-owned foundation.
Driven by both family legacy and a passion for responsible growth, John continues to play a vital role in shaping AMD Industries’ financial vision. His work ensures the company remains well-positioned to serve its clients, employees, and community for generations to come.
Brent Means
Field Operations Specialist | AMD Industries Inc.
Brent Means brings extensive field experience and technical expertise to his role at AMD Industries Inc., where he plays a key part in daily operations and site management. Based in York Springs, Pennsylvania, Brent has built a reputation for being dependable, knowledgeable, and highly skilled in the complexities of environmental and construction projects.
Brent holds a degree in Environmental Science and has continued to expand his knowledge through on-the-job training, industry certifications, and years of hands-on experience in the field. His education laid a strong foundation for his understanding of environmental compliance, water treatment systems, and infrastructure development—all of which are essential to AMD’s operations.
Known for his strong work ethic and hands-on approach, Brent works closely with engineers, technicians, and contractors to ensure that AMD’s work meets the highest standards of safety, quality, and environmental responsibility. He is often called upon to assist with challenging site logistics, equipment coordination, and real-time problem solving, making him an essential part of the AMD team.
Brent is deeply committed to the success of every project he touches and takes pride in contributing to AMD’s mission of delivering high-quality solutions across Pennsylvania and beyond. His professionalism, leadership in the field, and strong ties to the York Springs community continue to make him a valuable asset to both the company and the clients it serves.
Joseph Pehur
Project Manager | AMD Industries Inc.
Joseph Pehur is a dedicated and results-driven Project Manager at AMD Industries Inc., where he plays a key role in overseeing complex construction and environmental projects from planning through completion. Known for his attention to detail and strong leadership skills, Joseph ensures that every job is executed safely, efficiently, and to the highest industry standards.
With a background rooted in fieldwork and operational management, Joseph brings a wealth of practical knowledge to his role. He works closely with AMD’s technicians, supervisors, and clients to coordinate schedules, manage resources, and resolve challenges in real time. His ability to adapt in high-pressure environments has earned him the respect of both coworkers and clients alike.
Joseph played a key role in AMD Industries’ leadership transition in 2008, when John and Lynn DeFranco took over the company. His steady presence, operational insight, and commitment to continuity helped guide the business through this pivotal moment, ensuring that AMD’s standards and culture remained strong throughout the transition.
Today, Joseph continues to be a cornerstone of the AMD team. Whether he’s managing water treatment operations, coordinating construction crews, or mentoring newer employees, he leads with integrity, experience, and a genuine passion for the work he does.