Americhem Inc., a global provider of color and additive solutions for polymeric products, is celebrating its 75th anniversary in business on Tuesday, November 29. In honor of the occasion, Americhem’s employees took time to reflect on what the company means to them.
Americhem’s global workforce numbers approximately 800. Out of that total, 50 employees have achieved 30 years of service or more and 13 have worked for Americhem for more than 40 years. This speaks to the company’s integrity and longevity. Regardless of service time, Americhem employees realize the impact that its 75-year history has made.
Rick Juve, owner and chairman, has been with the company for 34 years. “It’s been an honor leading the second generation and being part of such a dedicated, talented team of people. We're excited to continue to innovate and transform to help drive our customers' success, hopefully for many years to come."
“The transformation and growth of Americhem during my 45 years has been incredible,” stated Doug Croley, account manager. “When I first started, there were two manufacturing facilities. Today, Americhem has a global footprint with multiple manufacturing plants serving key markets and customers. Celebrating 75 years as a privately held company, a leader in the industry and a solid commitment to the future speaks for itself.”
Executive vice president, CFO and five-year Americhem employee Jane Hamrle reflected on this accomplishment. “Using the 75-year foundation of strong values and solving customer problems, Americhem is poised for the next 75 years to be steeped in growth and innovation,” she said. “It’s an exciting time to celebrate success and energize the company to continue meeting market opportunities with speed and agility.”
Matthew Miklos, commercial vice president and general manager, Americas, has been with Americhem for two years and is inspired by Americhem’s legacy of color and additive expertise. “What started in 1941 in Akron, Ohio, is now a global enterprise with a strong presence in the Americas, Europe and Asia. From its early PVC colors for Packard Electric to the luxurious 2017 Lincoln Continental interior ‘Rhapsody Blue,’ Americhem draws on a depth of expertise in color and additives that spans the entire workforce.”
R&D manager Ron Beck has been with Americhem for 40 years. “After my interview with (Americhem retiree) Terry Latacki in August 1976, he asked me what my expectations from Americhem were,” Beck said. “I told him that I did not want to get bored at my job. I wanted to be continually learning and being challenged. I was told that Americhem would fulfill me. In my 40-plus years at Americhem, that promise was kept and I have always continued to learn and be challenged.”
“Americhem’s environment is really a tribute to what was created 75 years ago and continues to be fostered today,” said Diane Shields, vice president of global human resources, and Americhem employee for nearly three years. “It puts a smile on my face every day, knowing so many employees are proud and enjoy being part of the Americhem heritage and also are committed to continuing to make Americhem strong for the future.”
Even new employees feel the importance of the anniversary. Mario Azpeitia, Latin America commercial manager who has been with Americhem for two months said, “Just being with Americhem has made me feel I am in a company willing and capable of winning and growing. Americhem has the talent, energy and experience to achieve its goals and even surpass them.”
“Throughout my career at Americhem, I have been fortunate to have many different roles and opportunities,” said Mary Thomas, human resources and safety representative and 34-year Americhem employee. “I have had the pleasure of teaching and also being taught by many wonderful current and past employees. I appreciate all of my friendships and co-workers and the memories that I will always have with Americhem.”
Throughout the rest of 2016 and 2017, Americhem will celebrate its anniversary year with customers, employees and communities in which the company operates.
