Darrell Simpson is a member of our production team, and we thought it’d be nice to share a little bit about what makes Darrell who he is. Induron’s Production Manager Mike Nelms noted that Darrell’s attention to detail and eagerness to learn the trade make him a valuable member of the Induron family.

“Darrell is very detail-oriented, which is critical in all phases of production to produce the consistent and quality products that we strive to deliver to our customers,” Nelms said. “Though Darrell has only been with us a little more than three years, he excelled in the packaging department and is now in the process of learning to manufacture our coatings by working with a couple of our most-experienced employees in the manufacturing deptartment. Darrell has learned well and is another valuable, ‘long-term’ Induron employee.

To learn more about Darrell, check out the Q&A with him below!

Q: What are your responsibilities?

A: Making paint, unloading trucks and tankers, and stocking rows.

Q: Tell us about your background and how you came to work for Induron.

I worked in the sheet metal industry for fifteen years. During that time, I drove by Induron a lot. One day I decided to stop by to see if they needed any help. Turns out, they did!

Q: What’s your favorite thing about working for Induron?

A: The people I get to work with are easy to get along with.

Q: What’s the most challenging part about your job?

A: Learning a new trade after so many years of doing something else was difficult.

Q: What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?

A: Treat others the way you’d like to be treated.

Q: If you could have dinner with any person living or dead, who would it by and why?

A: My mother. She was the kindest and most thoughtful person I have ever known.

Q: What person has had the biggest influence on your life and why?

A: My father because he taught me if there’s a will there’s a way.

Q: What’s your favorite quote?

A: “Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can.”

Q: Tell us a little about your family, pets and/or hobbies.

A: My wife, Michelle, works at a daycare and loves taking care of children. I have a son named Austin, a daughter named Brittany and a grandson named Jeremiah.

Q: Where is your favorite place to be?

A: In the woods or on the water.

Q: If you could do another job for just one day, what would it be?

A: Aerospace engineer.

The post Meet the Induron Family: Darrell Simpson appeared first on High Quality Industrial Coatings.

By: Davies Hood, Induron President

With 2.34 billion users worldwide, social media is a powerful tool these days. It has transformed the way companies market their products and services and communicate with their customers, thus providing endless marketing opportunities. In fact, social media is viewed as the second most effective digital tactic for customer retention. However, many manufacturers may question how it can truly benefit their businesses.

The National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) recently published an article recognizing the benefits of leveraging social media and spotlighting a few manufacturing companies with standout strategies. According to the article, social media is not only a relatively inexpensive marketing tool, but it also drives website traffic, reinforces branding, provides brands with instant publishing capabilities and allows brands to communicate with followers in real time.

The key to an effective social media strategy is consistently producing informative, engaging and relative content, which each of these spotlighted companies seem to be accomplishing. Essentially, content is king and, for manufacturing companies, creating captivating content can be a challenge, which is why many businesses may shy away from using social media. Business.com said it best in its article Content Connects: How Top Brands are Using Blogs to Grow Their Customer Base.

Though it takes our entire team, we do strive to provide our audience with valuable content that is more interesting than watching paint dry. At Induron, we’re “keeping up with the Joneses” by employing a company blog, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and e-newsletter to share a variety of content, including industry insights, project profiles, employee spotlights and much more. We like to call it “a look beneath the surface” of Induron. Be sure to follow our blog, connect with us on social and let us know what you think!

The post How Manufacturers Can Leverage Social Media appeared first on High Quality Industrial Coatings.

By: Davies Hood, Induron President

In case you haven’t heard, my dad (AKA Induron CEO David Hood’s) story about the REAL Santa Claus in Birmingham’s history is getting around. In fact, Forbes contributor Larry Myler, recently mentioned this particular Induron blog in his article, 7 Ways To Make Your Business Stand Out In A Crowd Of Competitors.

I am flattered and extremely proud that Induron’s marketing efforts were recognized by such a notable magazine. Myler’s article emphasizes the importance of differentiating your business’s brand in order to stand out from competitors. He notes that this is especially important for small businesses since we are forced to compete against the big dogs, and I couldn’t agree more.

Here are the 7 strategies Myler stresses in his article:

1. Provide Legendary Customer Service.
2. Admit Mistakes and Fix Problems to Build Stronger Relationships.
3. Be Honest About Your Products and Services.
4. Come Up with Something New.
5. Embrace Corporate Social Responsibility.
6. Start a Blog.
7. Offer a Guarantee.

My dad’s Santa Claus story was specifically mentioned under the “Come Up with Something New” strategy. Myler wrote: “Continue to reinvent your company by adopting emerging technologies and introducing new processes, products and solutions. For example, make use of social media and mobile apps as a growing number of buyers prefer to find and work with you through their phones. There have been many examples of people coming up with unique ideas that have made a lasting impression, such as a real Santa Claus in Birmingham. All of these attention-grabbers help businesses stand out from the crowd; however, to be effective the underlying product or service must be at least up to par.”

At Induron, we’re certainly not afraid to try something new; however, we strive to employ all 7 of these strategies. For instance, since 1947, we’ve offered exemplary service and innovative products to our customers. Our team is honest about the products and services we offer, but not afraid to admit when we make mistakes, do whatever it takes to make it right, and ultimately, build stronger relationships with customers and contractors. We also actively embrace corporate responsibility. For example, this past year, Induron sponsored the MDA Toast to Strength Gala and donated paint to restore a school’s playground. Additionally, the Induron blog consistently provides readers with unique insight into our company that we like to call “a look beneath the surface.” And last but not least, Induron guarantees that you can count on us through thick and thin.

If you haven’t already, be sure to check out the full article here!

The post Have you seen Induron in Forbes Lately? appeared first on High Quality Industrial Coatings.

Lance Murphy works in Induron’s paint maker canning room as a valued member of Induron’s production team. When Mike Nelms, Induron’s production manager, recognized Lance’s exemplary work ethic, he knew he’d make an excellent addition to Induron’s team.

“Lance has brought the same work ethic, willingness to learn, attitude and energy to Induron that originally caught my attention at his previous job and caused me to approach him about coming to work at Induron. He has been a great addition to the team,” Nelms said.

As a hard-working, team-oriented individual, we’re proud to have him as a part of our Induron family and thought it would be nice to get to know him a little better. To learn more about Lance, check out the Q&A with him below!

Q: What are your responsibilities?

A: Filling paint and sometimes Protecto 401.

Q: Tell us about your background and how you came to work for Induron?

A: I’m a family man with 4 kids. I have worked hard at every job, which paid off when Mike (Induron’s Production Manager) saw me working and offered me an opportunity to work at Induron.

Q: What’s your favorite part about what you do?

A: The satisfaction of knowing I did a good job.

Q: Tell us about a project you’ve worked on that you’re especially proud of.

A: Building my family.

Q: What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?

A: Don’t let anyone make you think you can’t do something.

Q: If you could have dinner with any person living or dead, who would it be and why?

A: My mother because she is gone and there are more things I wish I could say to her.

Q: What person has had the biggest influence on your life and why?

A: My mother, she taught me right and wrong and gave me great morals and integrity.

 Q: What is your favorite quote?

A: “Great things in business are never done by one person.  They are done by a team of people.”

 Q: Tell us a little about your family, pets and/or hobbies.

A: I’m married with 4 kids, and my favorite hobby is fishing.

Q: Where is your favorite place to be?

A: Beach.

Q: If you could do another job for just one day, what would it be?

A: Fighter pilot.

The post Meet the Induron Family: Lance Murphy appeared first on High Quality Industrial Coatings.

We’re excited to welcome Ron Bouthillier to the Induron team! As our newest salesman from Medicine Hat, Alberta, Ron will focus on expanding both the Industrial Finishes and the oil and gas markets for Induron in Canada. Though Induron is not a recognized name in Canada right now, Ron is eager to support this new venture and promote Induron products in this territory. To learn a little more about Ron, check out this Q&A.

Q: How did you get your start in the protective coatings industry?

A: Not trying to date myself, however, I began selling paint in Chilliwack B.C. in 1986. I began as an assistant manager in a paint store. The challenges and constant learning have kept me in this business for many years. I was fortunate to work for companies that provided opportunity and training. Paint is a “hands-on” commodity, and it allows us to go get our hands dirty.

Q: What made you want to work for Induron?

A: Responding to a customer’s needs in a timely fashion with a solution is what drew me to Induron. Induron has that “family” feel, and the cooperation is unsurpassed. Likewise, the will and drive to succeed is evident. The history of a “third-generation” paint company speaks for itself. The genuine concern of resolving a customer’s coating need is seen. Induron values a customer.

Q: What’s your favorite part about working for Induron so far?

A: My favorite thing about Induron so far is the appetite to succeed. While there is much competition these days and many large companies, the smaller company is able to react and genuinely care about a customer. This is evident here.

Q: What’s your favorite part about what you do?

A: My favorite part of what I do is finding solutions to problems. Corrosion in North America is an epidemic problem costing billions of dollars. If we can provide a solution to mitigate this problem or extend the life of a valuable asset, this is a great reward.

Q: What’s the most challenging part about working in the protective coatings industry?

A: The most challenging part about my job so far is introducing a new company to a market that has not heard of Induron. However, this is only a temporary challenge and will be easy to overcome. A great company with superior products speak for itself.

Q: Are you seeing any new trends in the protective coatings industry?

A: Some of the new trends are for products that have lower VOC content and non-isocyanate products. Products that are safer for the environment and for the applicator are in demand.

Q: What has been the highlight or proudest moment of your career so far?

A: While working in Kelowna, the irrigation district installed 11 kilometers of 42-inch steel pipe underground. I was fortunate in selling the coatings for the inside and outside of this pipe, and it was a large project that spanned several months.

Q: What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?             

A:  Some of the best advice that I have received is to, “Have integrity in all that we do.”

Q: What person has had the biggest influence on your life and why?

A: Outside of God, my parents had the greatest influence on my life. They helped prepare me to walk through some of the challenges that the world has to offer.

Q: If you could have dinner with any person living or dead, who would it be and why?

A: To have dinner with Jesus would be quite a thing. A person and deity righteous in every way.

Q: What is your favorite quote?

A: One of my favorite quotes would be, “What you sow is what you reap,” found in Galatians.

Q: Tell us a little about your family, pets and/or hobbies.

A: I love spending time outdoors, whether it’s skiing, swimming, biking or hiking. Camping is also a favorite especially when our children and grandchildren are involved. We have a 5-acre property that we are developing, planting trees etc. This provides us with a lot of fun.

Q: Where is your favorite place to be?

A: My favorite place to be is on a Caribbean Island or on a cruise ship.

Q: If you could do another job for just one day, what would it be?

A: If I could do a job for one day, I would be the Prime Minister of Canada—perhaps fix some of the economic shortfalls.

The post Meet the Newest Member of Our Team: Ron Bouthillier appeared first on High Quality Industrial Coatings.

The Induron team is excited to yet again attend the American Water Works Association’s (AWWA) Annual Conference & Exposition (ACE) occurring June 11-14 at the Pennsylvania Conference Center in Philadelphia. We look forward to not only sharing what differentiates our products and makes them the ideal solution for various projects, but also learning from and networking with others in the industry. One product we’re especially excited to promote is our Ceramapure PL-90 Ceramic Epoxy, which we like to call the “all-in-one” pipe lining solution.

Learn more about Ceramapure PL-90 in the article below published in last year’s Water Industry News, visit Induron at Booth #2014 at ACE’17, OR contact a local sales rep for more information about our products!

Ceramapure PL-90 Ceramic Epoxy: Potable Water. Wastewater. Steel or Ductile Iron Pipe. AWWA C-210 compliant.

The “all-in-one” pipe lining solution is here. With Ceramapure PL-90 Ceramic Epoxy, Induron Protective Coatings brings decades of experience and technology to the pipe market. Founded in 1947, Induron is a privately held industrial coatings manufacturer. Specializing in water and wastewater applications, Induron consistently produces unique coatings solutions that protect a variety of assets in infrastructure. From the industry-standard ductile iron waste water pipe lining to its unique and proven line of ceramic epoxies, such as PermaClean 100 and Ceramasafe 90, Induron’s products protect nearly any immersion surface for water and wastewater treatment.

Induron’s Ceramapure PL-90 offers an especially unique barrier coating. The two-component, high-solids and chemically cured epoxy, is formulated for the protection of pipe and fittings for water or sewer service. Ceramapure provides the highest level of corrosion and abrasion resistance while being AWWA C-210 compliant. In addition to being AWWA C-210 compliant, Ceramapure provides the highest level of corrosion and abrasion resistance. Ceramapure PL-90 is also certified to NSF/ANSI International Standard 61 for potable water immersion service for pipe diameters of four inches or larger.

 “Ceramapure has been in use for more than a decade all over the U.S. and internationally,” said Chris Rowell Induron’s pipe coatings and linings specialist. “The potential usages for this type of a lining are very attractive considering the many ways it can be used to protect a pipeline. I don’t know of another pipe lining that can really tackle this many applications and truly perform in all of them. Municipal systems especially love PL-90 because it reduces the stock positions needed for water and wastewater in addition to eliminating the worry of installing the wrong lining in emergency situations. Additionally, we use only certified applicators to ensure our success.”

The extensive testing proves Ceremapure worthy of its nickname, the “all-in-one” pipe lining solution. One of the independent labs that tested PL-90 commented, “It is unusual for a coating to present with such a small amount of cathodic disbondment after the ASTM G-95 test. The disbondment caused by the cathodic current appeared to be less than 2 mm for all panels … water vapor transmission must be very low.”

PL-90 has been used successfully for raw water intake lines, water treatment injection points, wastewater treatment piping, gravity sewers, reverse osmosis plants, saltwater piping, storm sewer outfalls, sewer force mains and industrial process piping. The lining is also safe for membrane filtration systems.

For more than three decades, Induron has been the choice of specifiers and owners alike in the pipe industry. Induron understands what it means to be a partner with the engineering community, contractors and applicators who are all integral parts of the pipe and pipe lining industry. With Ceramapure PL-90 Ceramic Epoxy, Induron can help you insure the long-term success of your next pipe project.

The post Induron to Attend the AWWA’s Annual Conference & Exposition appeared first on High Quality Industrial Coatings.

By: Linc York, Induron Sales Representative

March 2, 2009 was my first day on the job for Induron Protective Coatings. Little did I know just how good it would be to be a part of the Induron team. Of my 46-year career, my time with Induron has been the most enjoyable and professionally satisfying.

Before my 66^th birthday this year, Davies emailed me an article titled “The Definitions of a Good Sales Rep” by Bill Farquharson and asked me for my thoughts. As I transition into retirement, I wanted to leave my friends and co-workers at Induron with a few tips on becoming a successful sales rep. Many of you know me well enough to recognize some of these, but I hope they will reveal concepts to improve your courage and sales.

1. Make the initial call. Every journey begins with the first step. In sales, that means making the initial call. My first year in sales was under the tutelage of a very wise and successful salesman. He taught me many things and two of them are relevant here. First, never drive past business. How many times have we all driven past that smokestack or big manufacturer and been in too big of a hurry or just not motivated enough to make the call? Second, always make an excuse to stop. It would take a small book to list the excuses I’ve made NOT to stop—shame on me! However, there have been many times when I did stop. Some of my stops were rewarding, and some even resulted in a significant sale and a long-term customer. A wise man once said, “First things first, second things not at all.” Lots of folks have looked questionably at my 30+ year-old day-timer. I write everything I want and need to do in there. When the “first” thing is done, I draw a line through it. Then, the next most important thing becomes first priority. At the end of the week, I look back at every page and carry over anything that doesn’t have a line through it. A day-timer may not suit your style, but use a system that works for you and use it EVERY day.
2. Impress the customer. Receiving complements like, “I wish my salespeople were as diligent as you” or “I like how you used a variety of methods and messages to get through to me” prove that you’ve successfully impressed the customer. I can’t think of anything more flattering than being offered a position by a customer, but how do you handle the opportunity? Though there are exceptions, chances are you weren’t made to be a good widget salesman even though you are a terrific coatings salesman.
3. Build lasting relationships with customers. Get to know every person in the account to the point that you may never need to prospect again. When customers leave one company to work for another, you will be brought into new companies and new opportunities. That portrayal should be your goal for all of your good customers. Build a customer relationship that is earned and respected. Your painting contractors should respect you enough that your business is a two-way street. You bring them leads and they reciprocate. Engineers and owners are much the same. If you’ve earned their trust, ask for referrals.
4. Provide informative input. If you’ve done a good job as a salesperson, clients begin calling YOU for input and recommendations. Can you imagine what our competition would do to have our seat at that table? Davies touts that Induron is a nimble company. Our R&D team has outstanding product development capabilities and routinely pulls rabbits out of their hats. If you can justify a new product or a tweak to an existing product that provides a solution to a customer, they can deliver it for you.
5. Bring existing clients new ideas. Another wise man said, “Don’t ever waste your customer’s time.” I cherished every new product because it gave me another opportunity to get in front of my customer with a legitimate and exciting solution to a problem. If it’s not a new product, then maybe it is something you learned at an Induron sales meeting. In any event, do something to keep your customer relationship fresh and meaningful. Offer a lunch and learn or demonstrate one of our products. Always be there to teach, correct and answer questions.
6. Become an expert in customers’ industries. When you’re aware of a customer’s problems, it’s easier to offer an effective solution. It may be part of being a male, but I always wanted to know the names of the equipment, what it does and the process in general. Being knowledgeable is a good quality for your customer to recognize in you, and it is so rewarding to see the look on the face of a new prospect when you can talk their talk—instant credibility!
7. Prove your value. I’ve always thought of that as the three-year milestone. The first three years in your territory are spent behind the wheel of your car and in front of the customer. After that, you should have proved your value and developed trusting relationships that result in referrals. In business, there are few things that make the sale easier and sweeter. When your chief source of new business becomes referrals, you’re doing this right.
8. Learn from your team. This may be a little corny, but a few years ago I purchased my first iPhone just before a Birmingham meeting. I was way out of my comfort zone and couldn’t wait to have Ben do a show and tell. I could have read the owner’s manual, but instead I leaned on Ben’s expertise. I was happy, happy, happy! Induron’s culture is to be admired. I think I can say that we all respect each other, learn from each other and care about each other. That’s a rare attribute in this day. Cherish it and make use of it. Network and build on it because the other “team” won’t. I was taught a definition of how to be successful many years ago, and it is still very true today: “Surround yourself with highly intelligent people who are willing and able to contribute to your success.” There’s not a single weak link among us. Induron strong!

I wish nothing but the best for you, your families and the terrific company we call Induron! “Love your project, protect it with Induron.”

The post A Letter from Linc appeared first on High Quality Industrial Coatings.

By: Davies Hood, Induron President

In his 8 years as an Induron salesman, Linc York not only led by example, but he also routinely inspired the Induron sales team with his wise words and esteemed character.  Before retiring, Linc said his goodbyes to the team and left them with a few tidbits of advice. Here are a few things his colleagues had to say that truly speak to Linc’s character and the influence he had on the Induron team:

“Congratulations and thank you for your excellent (too short) tenure at Induron! And, thank you for the sage advice. Don’t lose my email address.” -David Hood, Induron CEO

“First of all, THANK YOU for everything you have done to help me. I’ll never forget all your help! This is very inspirational and I’m sure I’ll need to read it on the days when things aren’t going my way. You are a CLASS ACT!!  I’ll miss you and all your sage advice. (Plato defines the sage as one who becomes ‘righteous and holy and wise.’) Enjoy your retirement my friend, and I’ll try not to call that cell number too often.” -Carl Moye, Induron Sales Representative

“It was my pleasure to get to know and work with you. Thank you for all the help in getting me started in my territory. I hope the next chapter of your life is fulfilling and rewarding. If you’re ever in my neck of the woods, please look me up and we will find some good food somewhere!!” -Russell Hicks, Induron Sales Representative

“What all these guys said and more! You are a true coatings professional, in every sense of the word! You also have provided very high-level writing skills, which in this coatings industry has become an essential skill set! You are prolific, fast, and use proper spelling and grammar; and you are a great guy! Thanks for all your input and assistance! As Dick said; if you and Lynn are up in New England, let Patty and I know! Have a great and very long retirement, and enjoy those cruises!” -Kendall Smith, Induron Sales Representative

For Linc, retirement means spending more time with his two daughters and four grandchildren, being more active in his church and going on plenty of cruises! He told us, “You may have heard that when you retire every week has six Saturdays and one Sunday and we are looking forward to all of them.” Though we’re excited to see Linc move on to a new chapter in his life, he will be missed dearly.

Linc, thank you for all you did for Induron and enjoy your retirement!

The post A Tribute to Linc appeared first on High Quality Industrial Coatings.

By: George Shannon, Induron Sales Representative

In this fast-paced world of information overload on the internet, everybody is looking for instant answers, new technology, and conducting business without the relationship between vendors, owners, and contractors. Interested in a new product with the latest technology? Look it up on the internet. Download the information and write the specification. No sales person necessary. Need someone in the region to apply the technology? Put out a spec and invite bidders without pedigree.

Well, sometimes the good, old-fashioned way of doing business is the easiest method to obtain critical data from quality manufacturers, get the specification written and find the most qualified applicators.

Aqua Pennsylvania, formerly Philadelphia Suburban, did just that in getting three tanks painted in Mercer County, PA. Induron’s Eastern Pennsylvania sales representative, Tex Enoch, has been in the water tank coating business since 1969. Philadelphia Suburban was his first sales call, and today, 48 years later, Tex’s relationship and customer service is their preferred method of doing business.

This year marks Aqua’s 130th year of providing water service to communities in need. Since 1886, they have done just that at a very high level. Yep, these two old pros know what it takes to get it done right. And they should after 48 years of working together.

As good as this relationship is, they can’t do it without a qualified installer and a superior coating system. I was asked to visit the job sites to ensure that everything was going well and the contractor and owner were happy. I have been in the coating business for 48 years and spent many days visiting these sites and climbing the tanks. My objective on this particular visit was to say hello to ‘Big Joe’ and make sure he had everything he needed to get the job done. It turns out ‘Big Joe’s’ company, LC United, has been painting tanks for nearly 40 years.

I hit it off right away with Big Joe. We talked about mutual friends that are no longer around, and maybe we connected quickly because we both remember the way it used to be. We talked about the old days of applying 4-coat vinyl with 85% VOC’s and 2-3 coats of epoxy at 10-12 mils dry. Big Joe didn’t like the vinyls, but he still likes the 3-coat epoxy system. “Easy to blast off in 15 years,” he said. But, “Hey George, this 100% solids Induron product is really good. Sprays smooth and hangs well.”

So, in the end, the three tanks were completed and everybody is happy. No internet research, a controlled bid list for QA, and a coating system that is technically sound and easy to apply.

So, here we have an owner/operator that has been in the business for 130 years, a sales representative for 48 years, a painting contractor for 37 years, and a third-generation coating manufacturer that has been making paint since 1947. Each business partner on this project represents stability, integrity and reliability.

It might be the old-fashioned way, but it was sure fun to be a small part of it. Everybody ought to try it!

The post Pittsburgh Area Water Tank Repaint: Getting Business Done the Old-Fashioned Way appeared first on High Quality Industrial Coatings.

By: Linc York, Retired Induron Sales Representative

When my wife and I visited the Black Canyon of the Gunnison many years ago, I realized that I had a fear of heights. As I approached a guard rail along the canyon edge to admire it’s incredible depth, I literally stopped in my tracks. I slowly inched the remaining 20 feet, but became extremely uncomfortable.  I did not feel secure or trust the guard rail.

Several years before, I promised our youngest daughter, Jennifer, that I would skydive with her one day. She turned 40 last week, and guess what, she decided to celebrate by jumping out of a perfectly good airplane at 10,500 feet. Naturally, I was reminded of my promise and, at first, I was reluctant and uncomfortable at the thought. I’m 66 and just retired. I have a cruise vacation planned. I could break a leg or worse. But, I would be humiliated if I chose not to honor a promise I made to my daughter.

During the few days I had to make my decision, I wondered if I could confront my fear and feel secure enough to jump from a height of two miles. Though I would not climb a 50-foot ladder, I have comfortably zip lined twice at that height. The ziplining did not phase me because I was harnessed to a steel cable and there was no way I could be injured or fall. I trusted the cable, the instructor and felt very secure. Once I learned that we would “tandem” skydive with an experienced, qualified and certified instructor who would literally be strapped to my back, very securely, I decided I could confront my fear.

So, we made the reservation for Gateway Skydiving Center where we met our two instructors who gave us safety training and a detailed description of what to expect. I watched as they packed their own chutes and felt that they could be trusted. My instructor, David, had more than 1,100 jumps and Jennifer’s instructor, Arnel, had more than 4,500 jumps. Our instructors fitted us into our safety harnesses. I was surprised and a little concerned at how loose mine was. Then, we loaded into the plane, climbed to 10,500 feet and when the one minute warning was given my instructor tightened my harness to his as if we were one.

I’ve never felt so secure until he opened the door, placed his right leg on the small step and told me to do the same while leaning outside the plane. The noise was loud and the wind was strong as I stepped out and looked at the ground two miles below us. There was a second of hesitation, but I really did trust him, so off we went. It was AWESOME! My daughter and I will have that memory for the rest of our lives. I am so glad I conquered my fear and placed my trust in an expert who made our security his priority.

Now, what does this story have to do with protective coatings?

Frankly, Induron Protective Coatings is much the same. Every product is formulated and rigorously tested to assure that it will perform to the highest standards. Every sales person has years of experience, training and certification. They can be trusted to recommend the product and system that meets and exceeds your needs.  Part of the mission statement at Gateway Skydiving is, “Our staff is very passionate and knowledgeable about what they do and will make sure that you have an unforgettable experience.” Similarly, Induron’s mission statement is “Integrity, Respect, Reliability, Innovation.” Our products and our sales force can be trusted. Give us a call, we’ve got your back!

The post We’ve Got Your Back appeared first on High Quality Industrial Coatings.

By: Kent Keuhl, Induron Sales Representative

In today’s ever-changing world in the technologies marketplace, the use of pictures and videos for promotion of a company has transformed dramatically over the years.  At one time, a single photo told the story of a particular project or event.  The branding of a company was as simple as a go-to product that differentiates itself in the market.  For example, Induron’s ceramic modified epoxy coatings are unique to the coatings industry and differentiate our company. 

This drone footage provided by Waukee Ariel is a recent example of today’s new technology and how it tells a story.  The video footage provided shows the time-lapsed footage of an elevated water storage tank that was sandblasted and painted by J. R. Stelzer Co., a company based out of Lincoln, Nebraska with more than 40 years serving the industry.

The video offers a unique perspective and view of the tank painting process that not all people get to see.  In addition to prepping and painting, this tank required a containment system to cut down and virtually eliminate fugitive dust and debris. The blasting process along with the application of the zinc primer, intermediate, finish coats of urethane, and finally the application of the cities name and logo complete and add the finishing touches to the project.  It’s amazing how this 3-month-long project can be condensed into a 3-minute video! Check it out below!

Jeremy McMahon, P.E. with Stanley Consultants Inc. out of their Des Moines, Iowa office was the engineer in charge of the project.  Induron enjoyed working with all parties on this project and looks forward to working with them again in the future!

The post Today’s Technologies: Waukee Water Tower Project appeared first on High Quality Industrial Coatings.

Induron Protective Coatings recently celebrated 70 years in business in Birmingham with a special ceremony at its plant, with Birmingham Mayor William Bell and others in attendance. 

Induron Protective Coatings is a third-generation family-owned manufacturing company with deep roots in Birmingham providing excellent products and high-quality service to our area, as well as national and international markets. Founded in Birmingham in 1947 under the name The Industrial Paint Manufacturing Company Inc., Induron has evolved into a protective coatings business that has grown to include sales associates across the United States as well as an ever-expanding product line.

“It takes a lot of commitment, belief in a good product and belief in the people around you to have a company that has lasted 70 years,” said Birmingham Mayor William Bell. “When you think of all the families that this company represents, the children that have been educated because of the work of this company, as well as the houses and cars that have been purchased, it all came from the belief of Induron’s founders that they had a quality product that would sell. Now, some 70 years later, we are celebrating that achievement.”

Induron was founded in Birmingham by William E. Hood and Louis A. Prosch Jr., who were determined to manufacture rust-inhibitive primers for the booming steel fabrication industry in Birmingham. The company later expanded into industrial primers and finishes, many of which set industry standards.

In 2013 Induron announced a $1.2 million expansion at its Birmingham plant, which allowed for a 50 percent increase in its production square footage and a 150 percent increase in production capacity.

“Induron’s 70-year history is great, our culture is even better and I am genuinely excited about our future because of the people on our team,” said Davies Hood, president of Induron. “We’ve been able to make changes and long term investments because of the outstanding culture of this organization and the hard work of the people that make up the Induron family who live our Core Values of Respect, Reliability, Innovation and Integrity.”

Today, Induron employs 40 people across the country and continues to renew its facilities and processes, and expand its salesforce and product line to take advantage of new market opportunities.

View the live video of the ceremony and more  photos from the anniversary event on Induon’s Facebook page!

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We’re excited to welcome Leo Hill to the Induron team in a Sales & Service position! Leo will focus on expanding Induron’s footprint in the northeast by developing water and wastewater specifications for regional engineering firms, water system owners and contractors. Leo will also strive to create new industrial coating customers with Induron’s new line of high-performance OEM production finish systems. To learn a little more about Leo, check out this Q&A.

Q: Tell us about your background and how you came to work for Induron.

A: My coating career began at PPG Industries as a technical service representative in 1982. I called on GM automotive assembly plants in Michigan, Ohio, Georgia and Missouri.

In 1990, I joined the Tnemec Company and learned how to sell high-performance coating systems via the engineering and architectural specification sales process (identifying projects and calling on the specification source). I had a terrific mentor, George Shannon who taught me the ropes of the specification sales cycle, and I am forever grateful for him. In fact, George is the gentleman who referred me to Induron. So, I guess I’m grateful twice!

In late 2009, I left Tnemec and joined Carboline to bring the company into the water and wastewater treatment market in my multi-state region. With Carboline, I developed significant business by calling on and selling manufacturers servicing the developing Marcellus and Utica shale gas, oil tank and equipment markets in the Northeast.

I then joined Jones-Blair out of Dallas to develop business with OEM manufacturers in the oil and gas markets in addition to heavy duty equipment and truck trailer manufacturing markets.

The water and wastewater tank and water treatment markets are where I want to be. I’m very excited to join such a talented team at Induron. I sense a great opportunity, or “upside potential,” with Induron. I’m looking forward to being part of the team that brings Induron to the next level!!!

Q: What’s your favorite thing about working for Induron so far?

A: Interacting with smart-focused industry professionals and the direction, energy and enthusiasm that starts at the top with the company leaders and is shared by administration, production and sales.

Q: What’s the most challenging part about your job?

A: Induron isn’t a well-known brand in the Northeast. I look at this as a challenge. My goal is to develop our company into a significant competitor in this region.

Q: What’s your favorite part about what you do?

A: Being a technical resource for engineers and owners, creating strong relationships based on trust and reliability. Improving an engineer’s specification or improving a production process motivates me. For example, I strive to reduce life cycle cost (make coating systems last longer) and improve production efficiencies by reducing production costs (1 coat instead of 2 / wet on wet systems) etc.

Q: Tell us about a project you’ve worked on that you’re especially proud of.

A: A few years ago, I evaluated 22 water storage tanks for a prominent Central Pennsylvania consulting engineering firm. Their client, a private water company in Central Pennsylvania, wanted to prioritize the maintenance schedule for 22 out of their 39 storage tanks. The steel tank designs included bolted, riveted and welded, and several tanks were cast-in-place concrete. Plus, most of the tanks had either a checkered or non-existent paint history file so it was a challenge from the get go.

I visited the sites to determine which steel tanks could be over-coated with high-performance coating systems and which tanks needed to be contained and blasted. I also determined the correct repair process for the concrete interiors and exteriors. In a nut shell, I created over-coat “risk analysis” reports for each tank, which contained results from physical testing—ASTM 3359 Method B testing, average total exterior DFT, etc. Based the results, I confidently recommended which tanks could be over-coated and which tanks needed to be contained and blasted.

The owner also relied on me to secure a list of qualified contractors to bid each of the 3-4 tank bid packages and to recommend inspection firms to bid the “critical point inspection” scope. I had convinced the owner, in the sales process, about the value of “objective third party” inspection. Consequently, the projects all went like clockwork!!Though it was important to specify my products on these 22 tanks, it was just as important to solidify my relationships with the numerous tank contractors and inspection firms involved by recommending them as quality and capable firms to the engineer and water system owner.

Q: What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?

A: As I drove off to Detroit, Michigan to take over the business world in my new job as a Technical Services Representative for PPG in 1982, my father stopped me in the driveway and said, “Just remember, you have two things to guard with your life young man: your honor and integrity.” He said, “Integrity is very hard to gain and easy to lose!” He finished by saying “Remember kid, my name is on the back of your game jersey. Respect it!”

Q: If you could have dinner with any person living or dead, who would it be and why?

A: St. Paul. He was somewhat of a scoundrel before being knocked off his horse and then proceeded to change his lifestyle. He changed to became part of the solution, not part of the problem. His take on living life well, despite your mistakes, makes sense to me. His writings that explain his take on living, are powered down so simple guys like me can understand them.

St. Paul is quoted: “In every circumstance, and in all things, I have learned the secret of being well fed and of going hungry, of living in abundance and of being in need. I can do all things in Christ who strengthens me.”

Q: What person has had the biggest influence on your life and why?

A: My father who passed away in 2010. My Dad came to Ellis Island in 1948 from Dublin, Ireland with about $25 in his pocket and his worldly possessions in a suitcase. He was a man of strong faith and incredible character. I never heard my father swear, never saw him drink or raise his voice against my mother.

He worked long days, day in day out. We always had food on the table and a nice home to live in. He worked very hard to put his six children through Catholic elementary and high schools.

My father wasn’t a bible beating fella, rather he set the bar for us through his words and actions. He led by example. While holding his hand when he was dying, I told my father “Dad, this isn’t fair as you have set the bar way too high for me”. He smiled, squeezed my hand and said, “Take care of your children, and take care of Mom.” Those were his last words to me. I can honestly say that I have done my best to do so.

Q: What is your favorite quote?

A: A little note my mother gave me when my first child was born, which is still on my bedroom mirror!!!    “Anyone can be a Father…. It takes someone very special to be a Daddy”

Q: Tell us a little about your family, pets and/or hobbies.

A: I have four children, a daughter and three sons. Molly just graduated from college and is working at the University of Pittsburgh while pursuing a Masters in Psychology. She wants to be a counselor for troubled children. My oldest son Leo graduates from the University of Pittsburgh this year with degrees in Mechanical and Nuclear engineering. He will also graduate as an Officer in the US Army. He is going to Flight School after graduation to learn to fly Apache helicopters with a goal of becoming a Med-Evac pilot. My son Colin is a sophomore at Penn State University majoring in Computer Engineering. Colin was just awarded with the Penn State Schreyers Honors Engineering scholarship. Colin has accepted an internship for next summer at Northrop Grumman in Baltimore, MD. My youngest son Quinn, is a junior in high school. Quinny is a student athlete who excels at football and basketball. He is blessed to have what his brothers and father never had…. SPEED!!  You can’t teach speed!  His brothers are on him all the time about making the grades, as well.

My favorite hobby is fly fishing in the mountains of Central Pennsylvania. I also like target shooting at a local Pennsylvania state pistol range.

Q: Where is your favorite place to be?

A: Either in the woods with my springer spaniel or at the beach in North Carolina.

Q: If you could do another job for just one day, what would it be?

A: I imagine being a fighter pilot would be awesome.

The post Meet the Newest Member of Our Team: Leo Hill appeared first on High Quality Industrial Coatings.

We’re excited to welcome Nick Jones to the Induron team! Nick will be making sales and providing service to Induron’s Alabama and Mississippi markets. To learn a little more about Nick, check out this Q&A.

Q: Tell us about your background and how you came to work for Induron.

 A: I have been in the paint industry for 16 years. I started my career 6 days out of college in the Sherwin Williams management training program. I managed two different stores and opened one from scratch. From there, I was promoted to an outside sales position and grew the territory to 2 million dollars. I have spent the past 5 years with PPG. They hired me to help start the Birmingham market before they acquired Akzo Nobel NA.

Q: What’s your favorite thing about working for Induron so far?

A: I’m really excited to work for a smaller company.

Q: What’s your favorite part about what you do?

A: I really like to win. I know that sounds silly, but the ability to win projects has always been what I enjoy.

Q: Tell us about a project you’ve worked on that you’re especially proud of.

A: I provided the material for the re-painting of the roof of the Hoover Met in the fall of 2013. This was a high-profile and local project for the company. The project was completed as a part of the package the Met was proposing for the SEC baseball tournament.

Q: Are you seeing any new trends in the protective coatings industry?

A: From newly-developed products to the way specifiers and applicators learn about them, the protective coatings market is fast evolving with new technology.

Q: What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?

A: Brokenness is the only way to true joy.

Q: If you could have dinner with any person living or dead, who would it be and why?

A: PJ Fleck, the head football coach at the University of Minnesota. This dude is wired so differently! I would love to pick his brain and get some insight on how he focuses all that energy in one positive direction.

Q: What person has had the biggest influence on your life and why?

A: My wife. She has shown me what grace, patience and love really is.

Q: Tell us a little about your family, pets and/or hobbies.  

A: My wife and I have been married for 15 years, and we have two boys age 13 and 10.  Most of the time we are shuffling from one practice to another or from one game to another. Both boys play baseball, football and some basketball, but baseball is their main sport. We have 3, yes 3 dogs, a Boston Terrier, a Bichon and a mini Dachshund.

Q: Where is your favorite place to be?

A: If not a ball field, it is on the water. I love to fish.

Q: If you could do another job for just one day, what would it be?

A: I think it would be awesome to be the manager of a Major League Baseball team. To be around that level of skill and professionalism has to be amazing. These guys play 160 plus games and have to find a way to bring it every day to be successful.

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By: David Hood, Induron CEO

At this time of year, it is customary to reflect on the past year and consider what you accomplished. This year, Induron not only celebrated our 70th year of business in Birmingham, but we also experienced a strong building year.

First, we added several new sales people, including Nick Jones, Leo Hill and Ron Bouthillier. They range from extensive experience to only some experience, but we are dedicated to training them all and supporting them to the best of our ability. We think our customers will be pleased with our new team members.

Secondly, we addressed the needs of new markets by developing specialized products, such as Indurethane Monarch HS and Indurlux 9400. We also entered into new territories, which expanded our customer base and enabled us to offer our unique solutions to more people. And, finally, we expanded our ability to deliver more product variety with the same “instant” service that we are known for.

All in all, we re-invented ourselves to satisfy old and new customers alike with the right product for the best long-term results.

Going into the new year we are facing the need to replace a few long-term, valued employees who are retiring. I am proud to have a work force that can afford to retire, but it will be difficult to replace the years of dedicated, competent service they provided.

We are all standing on the shoulders of those who came before us, and I have said many years that “the best is yet to come.” I believe 2018 will be the best for Induron. We could not have had such a successful year without our dedicated employees, loyal clients, excellent suppliers and vendors, and supportive family and friends! From our Induron family to yours, we wish you a Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, and a prosperous and Happy New Year!!

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By: Ben Rowland, Induron Technical Service Director

Having been employed by Induron Protective Coatings for over 10 years now, I’ve been able to watch the company grow consistently. In recent years, namely 2017, things have ramped up beyond what I would consider consistent growth. We have a dedicated sales team far larger than ever before. We have a geographic footprint more expansive than it has ever been before. We are delving into more diversified markets/industries than ever before.  In the midst of all these “ever before” statements, we’ve maintained our ability to serve our various customers and markets as well as any manufacturer in the industry.

As we’ve been watching the company swell with new people and opportunities, we recognized the need for an additional layer of support for our customers and partners. Out of this, the new position of Technical Service Director was established. When it was proposed and offered to me, I accepted this position with much enthusiasm.

I’ve always taken a lot of pride in Induron’s culture and how we go about our business. I was fortunate to represent the company in a sales territory for many years and now have an opportunity to nurture these ideals from the inside out. In this new position, I will be working with all of our reps and our Technical Department to ensure that, as a company, we are delivering what our customers need in the most efficient way possible.

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Sergio Correa began working as an international salesman for Induron in November 2016. He is responsible for opening the market for Transmission & Distribution and industrial paint in Latin America.  Though he resides in Latin America, he is an important part of the Induron family. To get to know him a little better, check out this Q&A:

Q: Tell us about your background and how you came to work for Induron.

A: My friend Juan Esteban Saldarriaga is also the General Manager of the company I work for, Energia SAS, and he informed me of this opportunity with Induron. I graduated with a degree in Business Administration with a specialization in International Business.

Q: What’s your favorite thing about working for Induron so far?

A: I learn something new every day. Davies, Ben, Barry, Ricky, Kendall, Allison, Brenda and David Parnell have been very helpful and reliable resources.

Q: What’s the most challenging part about your job?

A: It can be challenging to determine who the correct person is to inform about our products.

Q: What’s your favorite part about what you do?

A: I enjoy building relationships with customers and explaining the benefits of using Induron products.

Q: Are you seeing any new trends in the protective coatings industry?

A: Yes. Indurethane Monarch is revolutionizing the T & D and industrial markets.

Q: If you could have dinner with any person living or dead, who would it be and why?

A: I would like to have dinner with my father, who died when I was five. There are many things that I would like to ask and tell him.

Q: What is your favorite quote?

A: Davies and I like to say, “Show me the money.”

Q: Tell us a little about your family, pets and/or hobbies.

A: My wife’s name is Carolina and my daughter’s name is Isabela. We have a little dog named Little Flower (Isabela named the dog). One of my favorite hobbies is to fly radio-controlled airplanes.

Q: Where is your favorite place to be?

A: My favorite place to be is on the beach—just walking in the sand and looking at the ocean.

Q: If you could do another job for just one day, what would it be?

A: I would love to fly a F16 fighter jet.

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By: Jeff White, Induron EVP & General Manager

The last time you heard from me was in a blog about our Annual Christmas party. At that event, the Induron team not only celebrated the Christmas Holiday, but also our safety record and awards. Another thing we like to celebrate, which falls in line with our core value of “reliability,” is when we meet our quality goal. We only have one goal when it comes to quality: Get our customers the product they need.

We have two key performance indicators that we measure to see how we stack up. The first is cycle count, which is a production measurement that ensures the products meet our specification and quality control standards at time of production.  Depending on the product, we measure volume solids, density, color, sag, cure and several other paint related measurables. If we need to adjust anything, we count that as a hit.

For 2017, we met our goal of more than 90 percent of product batches coming off right the first time with no adjustments required. The remaining 10 percent are adjusted to meet our standards before putting into inventory. However, making a great, reliable product is only the first part of the equation.

The second part is making sure we ship the right products and components to our customers. With 99.8 percent accuracy required, this goal is even more stringent and is a tough bar to reach. Though these stretch goals challenge our team, they are attainable with hard work, dedication and efficient shipping processes.

We measure these goals quarterly and exceeded them for the fourth quarter of 2017. Our success rate for the ever increasingly difficult goal is little above 50 percent—an impressive rate if I do say so myself. To celebrate the hard work and attention to detail that our entire operations department put in to reach those goals, we visited one of Birmingham’s newest attractions, Top Golf. We don’t have many golfers in the bunch, but we had a great time and enjoyed great fellowship while swinging the clubs.

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We’re excited to welcome Jeff Rog to the Induron team! Jeff will be promoting and selling Induron’s product line to engineers, owners and contractors in the Ohio and Michigan water tank and treatment markets. His passion for the industry and making a difference make him a great addition to the Induron team. To learn a little more about Jeff, check out this Q&A.

Q: Tell us about your background and how you came to work for Induron.

A: Equipped with an extensive background in the water and water tank markets in corrosion control, I regularly attended and taught classes at technical conferences and trade association meetings. Through those involvements, I met a lot of people in the water tank business, including several Induron team members. I just happened to call one of my friends, Tex Enoch, to wish him a happy New Year, and it turned out Induron was looking for a salesperson to cover the Michigan and Ohio area, where I have developed relationships with key engineering firms. We started talking, and it seemed like a good fit.

Q: What’s your favorite thing about working for Induron so far?

A: Induron is very focused on the water market, which I am very passionate about. This passion is shared at all levels of Induron. There is a true desire to deliver best-in-class products supported with superior service that can really make a difference for our customers.

Q: What’s the most challenging part about your job?

A: In Ohio and Michigan, basic brand recognition is a challenge because most people haven’t heard of Induron or tried our products. However, with challenges come opportunities. Induron has a sustained and strong track record of success, which establishes a high-degree of confidence that once they try us, they will like us.

Q: What’s your favorite part about what you do?

A: Water storage tanks and treatment plants are expensive parts of a very critical infrastructure designed to provide clean and safe drinking water to our communities. This is one of the single most important things our society depends on for health and prosperity. Becoming a trusted advisor to the owners, engineers and contractors associated with building and maintaining them properly is something I love to do. I enjoy providing products and technical solutions that protect these valuable assets and keep our drinking water safe and clean.

Q: Tell us about a project you’ve worked on that you’re especially proud of.

A: Before I got into the water market, I spent nearly ten years in Landscape Design in Dallas, Los Angeles and New York City. In Manhattan, I designed and installed roof and terrace gardens. I had a client in the East Village with a penthouse terrace who wanted a lush, true four-season garden. In my interview, the only instructions were “when I sit on my terrace, I want the city to disappear.” I competed against five other firms and my proposal was more than twice as expensive as the next highest. I went all out, with custom-built trellises and planters, over 30 varieties of trees, shrubs, grasses and wild flowers from nurseries as far away as California.  I also included seeding grass in the spaces between the paving stones on the floor, so they would feel soft grass on their feet as they walked. When asked why my price was so high, I explained my vision and won the job. The result looked like a country garden in the city that had been there for years. And yes, we made sure when the owners sat down they were enveloped in greenery and color that made the city disappear. The owner was thrilled with the result, and we won a national design award for the project!

Q: Are you seeing any new trends in the protective coatings industry?

A: The trends I see are mainly continuations and evolutions of the same trends I saw a few years ago. Generally, these trends are driven by health and environmental concerns, such as reduced VOC’s, concerns over heavy metals etc. Induron responds to these challenges with exceptional coatings that perform as well or better than their predecessors. I am proud to work for an organization like Induron that strives to keep up with the changes and challenges in the market and can develop outstanding products as a result.

Q: What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?

A: I learned in church as a child to “Do unto others as you would have them do to you.”

Q: If you could have dinner with any person living or dead, who would it be and why?

A: We lost my mom a few years ago in a sudden, tragic accident. There isn’t much I wouldn’t give to talk and laugh over dinner one more time with her.

Q: What person has had the biggest influence on your life and why?

A: My parents. My dad was a very driven, hard-working person who wanted to give his family a better life. Mom was the rock that always made sure we were able to experience things to enrich our lives, play sports and be involved in school activities. She also always made things fun. They both gave up a lot for us kids, and I appreciate everyday what they did for us.

Q: What is your favorite quote?

A: “If not us, who? If not now, when?” -John F. Kennedy

Q: Tell us a little about your family, pets and/or hobbies.

A: I have a 16-year-old daughter, and we have a fish tank with ten fish and two crested geckos. Despite her being in the midst of her teenage years, we remain very close. I have a degree in Studio Art, and I am a painter. It is far more than a hobby. My daughter is also very artistic, so we share a painting studio.  I am also a fly fishing nut. They refer to our kind as “trout bums.” My father lives close by and is my fly fishing guru. My life is very simple and revolves around my daughter and my Dad.

Q: Where is your favorite place to be?

A: I have three. Our family cabin on the Allegheny River in northwest Pennsylvania, Big Sky Montana, and new to this list, Patagonia, Chile. If I ever mysteriously drop off the grid, look for me in these places…or don’t.

Q: If you could do another job for just one day, what would it be?

A: Fly fishing guide. I really enjoy the opportunity to teach and introduce people to the sport and artistry of fly fishing. More importantly, as I explained to my daughter, it’s a pursuit that takes us to very special and beautiful places. On my recent trips to Montana and Patagonia, Chile, I don’t remember how many fish I caught, but the majestic beauty of these places haunts my dreams in the very best way. One of the villages I visited in Chile was FutaIeufu, which means “big river.” The town is known in the region as “the landscape painted by God.” Helping people experience things like that would be very rewarding.

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By: John Anspach, Induron Technical Director

In a flash of time, 15 years have passed. Unbelievable.

In fall of 2003, I interviewed with Induron Coatings looking for a fresh start in a career that had already spanned 25 years with three other coatings companies.  In the summer of 1978, I got my first taste of the coatings industry working as a QC technician summer intern for Ford Motor Co.’s coatings manufacturing plant in Mt. Clemens, Michigan. The following January, I received a full-time job with them as a process engineer and a production supervisor in training.

With the foreign auto industry quickly gaining ground and eroding domestic sales, times were not good for the American auto industry in 1979. As a result, I was laid off after just a year with Ford and looking for another job.

I moved back to my home state of Ohio and began working as a process engineer for Glidden Coatings in mid-1980.  This is where I was able to truly cut my teeth in the industry.  I was particularly pleased to be able to develop a pilot plant operation and a predictable process scale up of products from bench-top to plant.

In late 1986, I joined Sherwin Williams in Cleveland.  While there, I designed and installed a pilot plant and scale up process for them, as well.  In 1992, I relocated to Georgia as their Technical Director for the Southeast region.

By 2003, I sensed something was missing. Even though I had enjoyed the career path so far, I had grown somewhat restless and unfulfilled with my career. Though I loved living in the southeast, I began looking to see what more might be out there…

Later in 2003, I interviewed with David Hood, owner of Induron Coatings, a dedicated, conscientious and successful owner.  As soon as I met David and the rest of the Induron staff through the interview process, I was sold and hoped that they were sold on me.  This was an opportunity to work for a solid, successful, family-owned business with a true family feel.

My wish was granted, and I soon started on as Induron’s Technical Director.  I eventually oversaw the operations department, as well, where I could ensure that R & D efforts were production capable and consistent in quality.

Fifteen years! Well, one way for me to provide a yardstick measure of that time is to reflect on a few of the new products that were commercialized during this time…Indurazinc MC67 in 2006, PermaClean100 in 2008, PermaTuff SL and TL70 in 2009, PermaGloss in 2010, Warrior 100 in 2011, Permastic in 2012 and AquaClean in 2013. This certainly helps capture my time at Induron and quantify the many changes to our product offerings.  Some of these developments involved significant challenges, but in the end, all were rewarding ones.

I can honestly say that my time employed with Induron has been the most enjoyable and productive of my career.  There is no company quite like Induron and not likely to ever be.  People make and define a company, and that is certainly the case here.  I will miss a lot about this experience as I move into retirement, and those good memories will remain with me the rest of my life.

Many thanks to Induron, and a special thanks to Davies Hood and Jeff White, for the continuous and full support of the R & D effort.  I am truly thankful and proud to have been part of the growth and positive changes of this company. I wish all the best going forward for Induron Coatings.  I know that I leave a company with a bright and solid future!

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