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A Matter of Influence
The 2012 List of the Most Influential Individuals
Impacting the Glass and Metal Industry
The glass industry has changed dramatically during the
past five years, no doubt about it. Products are becoming increasingly
more sophisticated, projects are incorporating glass in new and unusual
ways, and the way in which glass and metal gets to market continues to
evolve. While the challenging economy and the needs of the end-user play
a major role in shaping our industry, these changes are truly the result
of the hard work of the individuals who are leading their peers in new
directions.
The 2012 USGlass Most Influential People recognizes
individuals in the glass industry who are changing the whole equation
of how we look at the industry. The following individuals, selected by
our editorial team after much deliberation, took the time to share what
motivates and challenges them. While we know it is a far from inclusive
list, we hope it will inspire all members of the industry to thank those
co-workers, supervisors and colleagues who have had a profound impact
on them—and to step up themselves to help guide their peers, their companies
and their industry to greater heights.
All profiles included below were provided by nominees. If
you don’t see someone you believe should be here, please email your nomination
for the next list to Megan Headley at mheadley@glass.com.
The Most Influential
Ted Hathaway, 57, currently serves as CEO of Oldcastle
BuildingEnvelope™. While Hathaway is certainly an industry visionary,
he falls into a category of his own with all of the knowledge, expertise
and influence he’s brought to the industry over the years. He is a graduate
of Connecticut College with bachelor’s degrees in economics and political
science, followed by a master’s in business administration from Columbia
University. His first job in the building products industry was for Oldcastle
25 years ago, following a career in commercial banking.
USG: What do you think is the biggest challenge for the
industry right now?
TH: I think that there’s a fundamental issue about “smart” building
envelopes … We have [dynamic glazing], we have some innovation on solar
control products, we have sputter-coated triple silver coatings—but we
don’t have smarter building envelopes.
Smarter building envelopes are along the lines of what I
described at the BEC Conference (see April 2012 USGlass, page 36),
where you design the façade to be compatible with its environment. You
take advantage of mixed mode, where you have windows that actually operate
and allow the building to breathe. You’re not taking anything away from
the architect, but you’re providing insight about the design and whether
or not it’s a smart design.
My view is that the [glass] industry tends to put the same
glass on all four sides of the building, yet there are different substrates
that work better on the south or sun-exposed side versus the north side.
If you put a triple-silver on a building that has just one façade exposed
to the sun, then the three other sides suffer a diminutization of natural
lighting—because the triple-silver masks the benefits of the natural daylighting
…
USG: What are your hopes for helping to
move the industry forward?
TH: I think the big issue is: Are you going to embrace technology?
People embrace electronic spreadsheets. I’d say just about everybody is
working on some type of bid estimating software or scheduling management
software. I think the issue is inter-operability and whether or not we
all have the ability to share information. If you’re not working in a
3D CAD environment or 3D BIM environment, you’ve got to get there, because
the world is moving in that direction very rapidly and the days of walking
into a conference room with rolls of 2D CAD drawings are drawing to a
close.
USG: What would you be doing for a living
if not what you do now?
TH: I think I’d go somewhere in the nonprofit world … I would like
to take my creativity, vision and business acumen and I would like to
redeploy it in a nonprofit setting—but in a big enough sandbox to make
a difference.
The Visionaries
Through building design and project innovation, these individuals are
changing the way that glass is used and the industry in which we work.
By promoting new and innovative applications, these visionaries are helping
to move the glass industry forward.
Keith Boswell, 55, currently serves as
technical director for SOM San Francisco. He earned a bachelor’s degree
in architecture from the University of Tennessee Knoxville in 1980. His
first brush with the glass industry came as job captain for LTV Center
in Dallas in November 1982.
USG: What do you think is the biggest challenge
for the industry right now?
KB: For the glass industry to provide owners/architects/builders
with adequate technical guidance and information on products. This applies
to design, detail, specifications, material characteristics, fabrication,
shipping and handling, installation and long-term maintenance.
USG: What would you be doing for a living if not
what you do now?
KB: Drawing Marvel Comic characters.
USG: Do you have a favorite quote/saying
you could share?
KB: Treat every project—no matter the size—as if it is the last you will
ever do. This is the project by which you will be remembered.
Helen Sanders, 43, currently serves as vice president
of technical business development for Sage Electrochromics Inc. She earned
her doctorate in surface science, following master’s and bachelor’s degrees
in natural sciences (chemistry), from the University of Cambridge, England.
She first joined the glass industry as a research scientist with Pilkington
PLC UK in March 1994.
USG: What do you think is the biggest challenge
for the industry right now?
HS: I would say figuring out how to maintain profitability in current
economic times, while also investing and innovating to assure future growth
and profitability. Part of this challenge involves innovating to stay
ahead of increasing energy code stringency and also developing the “people”
message behind the need for glass in buildings. If we want to ensure glass
areas in buildings are not significantly reduced because of concerns over
energy inefficiency, we need to work on generating good data and clear
messaging that supports both the energy savings from using natural daylight
to offset artificial lighting and the “people” benefits of glass and their
impact on building owners’ bottom lines.
USG: What would you be doing for a living if not
what you do now?
HS: Those who know me well might guess I’d choose to be dancing
… although I wouldn’t make much money as I am not that good!
USG: Do you have a favorite quote/saying you could
share?
HS: This is a shortened version of a quote from Scott Hunter who
has given motivational presentations at both IGMA and GANA meetings in
the past. I found this recently in one of his newsletters and I find it
helps me keep perspective and reduce the stress of an increasing workload.
His concept is related to “trust,” which he calls the forgotten emotion.
He says: “Relax, take a nice deep breathe, look at what’s in front of
you, and trust that what needs to get done will get done.”
The Multigenerationals
It’s a common occurrence in the glass industry to pass on a business to
the next generation. These industry teams have made waves by working together
to influence multigenerationals in the glass industry. Please note:
Don and DJ Friese of C.R. Laurence declined to be interviewed for this
feature.
Dino and Alessandro Fenzi, Fenzi Group
Dino Fenzi, 71, currently serves as president of Fenzi Group.
He earned his master’s degree from Bocconi University in Milan. He began
working in 1959 in the family’s business in administration and commercial
departments.
USG: What do you think is the biggest challenge
for the industry right now?
DF: Global competition with unbalanced global costs (due to
unbalanced currency parities).
USG: What would you be doing for a living
if not what you do now?
DF: No idea—probably I would have taken the first opportunity and
tried to grow inside that reality (any reality).
USG: Do you have a favorite quote/saying you could
share?
DF: Homo faber fortunae suae (every man shapes his own fate).
Alessandro Fenzi, 42, currently serves as CEO of Fenzi
Group. He holds a degree in economics from Università Commerciale Luigi
Bocconi in Milan. His entry into the glass industry came as support to
Fenzi Group’s Italian salesmen.
USG: What do you think is the biggest challenge
for the industry right now?
AF: Each economic macro-region has its own challenges. In the Western
world, the challenge is to keep innovating. This is the only way to offset
the cost handicap toward less developed countries.
USG: What would you be doing for a living if not
what you do now?
AF: I have never thought too much about this. I always wanted to
work with my father in our family company and this is what I did.
USG: Do you have a favorite quote/saying you could
share?
AF: When there is a doubt … there is no doubt!
Jerry and Jeff Razwick, TGP
Jerry Razwick, 68, is the founder of Technical Glass Products.
He earned his bachelor’s degree in communications and business from Washington
State University. His first job in the glass industry was helping his
father, who started a glass company with their next-door neighbor when
Jerry was growing up.
USG: What do you think is the biggest challenge
for the industry right now?
JR: The obvious challenge for our industry is that construction
is slow. Less obvious is that it’s harder for people to do business without
compromising standards, which will ultimately affect how our industry
recovers.
USG: What would you be doing for a living if not
what you do now?
JR: If I weren’t in the glazing industry, I’d be doing something
that combines traveling with fishing.
USG: Do you have a favorite quote/saying you could
share?
JR: Treat others as you would like to be treated.
Jeff Razwick, 36, currently serves as vice president
of Technical Glass Products (TGP). Jeff earned his bachelor’s degree from
Whitman College, followed by a master’s degree in business administration
from Seattle University. His first job within the glass industry was much
like his father’s; he began sweeping out the TGP shop floor after school
when he was 14.
USG: What do you think is the biggest challenge
for the industry right now?
JR: Like all industries, one of the biggest hurdles we’re facing
is improving our economic situation.
USG: What would you be doing for a living if not
what you do now?
JR: My second career of choice would be in the aviation field as
a pilot.
USG: Do you have a favorite quote/saying you could
share?
JR: “Do what’s right. Do it right. Do it right now.” –Malcolm Stevenson
Forbes, publisher of Forbes magazine
Jim Dunston and Nancy Peterson, Azon
Jim Dunston, 85, is the founder of Azon. He dropped out of
high school to join the U.S. Merchant Marines during World War II and
his entrepreneurial experiences since then have provided a lifetime of
education. His first introduction into the window business came in 1968
when the late Frank Gorrell, president of Season All Windows, hired him
to be general manager of the company’s aluminum extrusion painting facility
in Inkster, Mich. Jim’s daughter, Nancy Peterson, currently serves
as director of market communications at Azon. Her entry into the glass
industry came in 1989 when she was hired by Burton Building Products as
a marketing representative. She holds a degree from Cornerstone University.
Not wanting to be in the spotlight, Peterson declined to be interviewed
for this article.
USG: What do you think is the biggest challenge
for the industry right now?
JD: The greatest challenge for the industry today is to make products
that meet the advancing regulations for increased energy performance.
Some of those regulations are prescribed by bureaucrats who have little
knowledge of the methods and materials that are required to produce windows
that are practical in all applications. Discounting the current economic
retraction in personal wealth, principally brought on by the overbuilding
of housing, coupled with the crazy subprime debacle, this much I am sure
of—the world’s population is growing. In the United States alone the population
is expected to reach 350 million people in the next decade. All those
people need shelter and everything that goes with it. The future is indeed
promising for those who build windows for homes, offices, schools and
hospitals for the burgeoning population.
USG: Do you have a favorite quote/saying you could
share?
JD: “The shelter business is the place to be.”
The Technical Braintrust
There are just some people who serve as a technical resource no matter
what the nature of the question. By sharing their technical know-how with
the industry and its customers, they help to raise awareness of the amazing
ways in which glass works and how to keep improving it. They are also
an early warning system when the industry is threatened.
Chris Barry, 72, currently serves as director
of technical services, building products, for Pilkington North America
Inc. He earned his bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from University
College in Dublin, Ireland. His first foray into the glass industry was
starting up the automated cutting lines on the first float line in Canada,
in Scarborough, Ontario, in 1967, while shutting down the last sheet glass
line.
USG: What do you think is the biggest challenge
for the industry right now?
CB: Realizing the values of the new glasses and coatings that are
becoming available, and getting them to market.
USG: What would you be doing for a living if not
what you do now?
CB: Solving more problems.
USG: Do you have a favorite quote/saying you could
share?
CB: Sometimes saying “I don’t know” can be the most helpful and
productive thing for everyone.” Or: “I can’t tell you how strong any one
piece of glass is, until it was.”
Robert Brown, 74, currently serves as principal
of Robert L. Brown and Associates LLC. He earned his bachelor’s degree
in ceramic engineering from Clemson University in 1960. His entry into
the glass industry came with his appointment as a research engineer trainee
at Ford Motor Co.’s glass division in 1960.
USG: What do you think is the biggest challenge
for the industry right now?
RB: Finding reliable suppliers that will retain their identity
over the next 10 to 20 years. Also, finding employees with a positive
work ethic at every level is equally important.
USG: What would you be doing for a living if not
what you do now?
RB: One of the things I used to tease about was that fisherman
were less hassled than folks in glass management positions. Thus, maybe
operating a worm or bait farm or business.
USG: Do you have a favorite quote/saying you could
share?
RB: It is easy to complain about a situation but more pleasurable
to address and fix the problem.
Kerry Haglund, 48, currently serves as senior
research fellow at the Center for Sustainable Building Research (CSBR)
at the University of Minnesota. She holds both bachelor’s and master’s
degrees in architecture. Her entry into the glass industry came in her
current role, when in 1997 she was hired as a consultant to complete the
second edition of the book, Residential Windows.
USG: What do you think is the biggest challenge
for the industry right now?
KH: The role of windows in rating programs and code development.
The importance of windows is to provide natural light, natural ventilation
and a visual connection to the outside. As rating programs move toward
performance-based metrics and outcomes, windows play a significant role
in the performance of the entire building envelope and these three issues
(light, ventilation and view) cannot be neglected. Hitting a certain pre-defined
target, such as a specific U-factor or SHGC number, does not always result
in the best energy-efficient or human-centered design.
USG: What would you be doing for a living if not
what you do now?
KH: Since I do have degrees in architecture, I would probably be
a practicing architect working in the areas of three-dimensional (3D)
visualization and animation. Before starting my work at the University
of Minnesota I was part of a company that specialized in conceptual 3D
modeling (similar to Google SketchUp) and I continue to occasionally work
and design using visualization and animation tools.
USG: Do you have a favorite quote/saying you could
share?
KH: “I’ve searched for so long, now that I’ve found that I believe,
all that I do or say is all I ever will be.” -Jerry Jeff Walker
Urmilla Sowell, 36, currently serves as technical
director for the Glass Association of North America (GANA). She earned
her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in civil engineering from Texas Tech
University and is a registered professional engineer in Florida. Her entry
into the glass industry came with her appointment in 2000 as assistant
operations manager for HTL Inc.
USG: What do you think is the biggest challenge for the
industry right now?
US: I cannot answer this question without also offering a comment on the
greatest achievements in the industry right now. One of the greatest achievements
of this industry is its constant innovation and development of new value-added
products, in contrast to the perception by many that it is a mature industry,
mired in the past. It seems as though frequent advances in technology
have enabled the glass and glazing industry to constantly evolve with
the introduction of newer, more energy-efficient, high-performance products
in the marketplace. Manufacturers are bringing forth products that are
multipurpose and offer many glazing solutions: energy efficiency, safety
and security, comfort and productivity. The challenge is to keep up with
the growing demand for high-performance glazing products as the pressure
to save energy continues. I think the biggest challenge currently is the
economic climate the industry has faced the past few years. This slowdown
has caused a lot of consolidation of companies and the loss of many great
resources and talent. In this economy, some companies are not investing
in technical talent as they once did. I hope this will change very soon
as the industry needs the next generation of technical minds to move it
forward.
USG: What would you be doing for a living if not
what you do now?
US: I would likely be a professor either in math or engineering.
USG: Do you have a favorite quote/saying you could
share?
US: Every setback is a set-up for a comeback.
Stanley Yee, 41, currently serves as building
enclosure consultant for The Façade Group. He earned his bachelor’s degree
in engineering from Concordia University. His entry in the glass industry
was a position as project/design coordinator for Werner Cladding Systems
(HK) Ltd. in Hong Kong in August 1994.
USG: What do you think is the biggest challenge
for the industry right now?
SY: Two things: apathy and a redefined perception of value. More is always
wanted for less. Real recognition of value comes when the powers that
be and stakeholders are ready to pay more for value, for innovation, for
a better way of doing things.
USG: What would you be doing for a living if not
what you do now?
SY: Realistically, likely a lawyer and/or serving some capacity
within the public and/or policy realm.
USG: Do you have a favorite quote/saying you
could share?
SY: The ends don’t justify the means.
The Association Types
By having numerous forums for discussion and action, in the guise of its
associations, the glass industry is moving forward constantly. These individuals
are leading countless others in devoting their time to improving technical
standards and promoting best-practice discussions.
Bill Yanek, Ashley Charest and Brian Pitman are all
integral parts of the Glass Association of North America (GANA) machine
that keeps moving forward. Watch for an expanded interview with executive
vice president Yanek in an upcoming issue on the occasion of his fifth
anniversary with GANA.
Ashley Charest, 34, currently serves as account
executive for the Glass Association of North America (GANA). She most
recently earned her certification in nonprofit management from Washburn
University, following a master’s degree in business administration and
bachelor’s degree in arts mass media, with an emphasis in public relations,
also from Washburn University. Her entry into the glass industry came
in 1999 when she was hired as event planner for GANA.
USG: What do you think is the biggest challenge
for the industry right now?
AC: I believe the industry went through and is still under strain
from the economy, but the biggest challenge now is seeing the forest through
the trees. Businesses need to be investing in people, research and development,
and marketing themselves, all while still being conscious of the bottom
line.
USG: What would you be doing for a living if not
what you do now?
AC: I would be a book editor/buyer. I’m an avid fan of reading,
although I don’t have as much time for it now as I did before having children.
USG: Do you have a favorite quote/saying you could
share?
AC: “Be who you are and say what you feel, because those who mind
don’t matter and those who matter don’t mind.” –Dr. Seuss
Brian Pitman, 42, currently serves as director
of marketing and communication for the Glass Association of North America
(GANA). He earned his degree in chemical engineering, with a minor in
political science, from Kansas State University. He joined the glass industry
in June 2000 originally as website developer for GANA.
USG: What do you think is the biggest challenge
for the industry right now?
BP: The biggest challenge is simply a lack of projects. Our industry
is geared toward the good times when everyone is building. We haven’t
seen that in quite some time, and so we need to find a way to survive
in the bad times, and be able to flip into hyper-drive once the projects
do start up again.
USG: What would you be doing for a living if not
what you do now?
BP: I would be traveling the world spinning music in dance clubs,
or working for a startup company in San Francisco.
USG: Do you have a favorite quote/saying you could
share?
BP: “Instant Karma is gonna get you.” -John Lennon. It really fits
in the glass industry, don’t you think?
David Cooper, 52, currently serves as advanced
insulating glass (IG) program leader for Guardian Industries Corp. and
is the current president of the Insulating Glass Manufacturers Alliance
(IGMA). Cooper earned his bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering from
Michigan State University. He first entered the glass industry with his
position at Wacker Silicones as planner for sealants in 1989, followed
by a post as business manager, fenestration products, for ADCO-Koemmerling
North America in 2002
USG: What do you think is the biggest challenge
for the industry right now?
DC: Succeeding in an economic downturn while still being able to
devote budget to research and development and asset capital in order to
improve product performance for the next growth spurt.
USG: What would you be doing for a living if not
what you do now?
DC: Well, I was once offered a job as executive director of the
Porsche Club of North America; sometimes when things aren’t going right,
I kick myself.
USG: Do you have a favorite quote/saying you could
share?
DC: “Once you fall into the glass hole, you can never crawl out.”
Steve Fronek, 55, currently serves as vice president
of technical services for Wausau Window and Wall Systems and chair of
the American Architectural Manufacturers Association. He earned his bachelor’s
degree in mechanical engineering from Michigan Technological University
and is a registered professional engineer in Wisconsin. He first entered
the glass industry with a position as regional sales engineer for Marmet
Corp.
USG: What do you think is the biggest challenge
for the industry right now?
SF: The performance of curtainwall and windows will be key to meeting
the AIA 2030 Challenge, for 100 percent carbon-neutral new buildings and
major renovations. I know our industry is up to meeting that challenge.
USG: Do you have a favorite quote/saying you could
share?
SF: I keep one quote posted next to my desk. When Jack Nicklaus
received the 2008 PGA Lifetime Achievement Award, he read this during
his acceptance speech: “Watch your thoughts; they become your words. Watch
your words; they become your habits. Watch your habits; they become your
character. Watch your character; it becomes your legacy.”
Jay Phillips, 40, currently serves as national
architectural sales director for Guardian Industries Corp. and president
of the Glass Association of North America. He earned his bachelor’s degree
in business administration from Robert Morris University, then completed
graduate studies in business at Duquesne University. His career in the
glass industry began in 2003 when he served as PPG Industries’ architectural
manager in the Southeast United States.
USG: What do you think is the biggest challenge
for the industry right now?
JP: Lack of recognition by the construction community of the value
the industry brings along with the threats from code authorities to reduce
the use of glass.
USG: What would you be doing for a living if not
what you do now?
JP: Had I never joined the glass industry I would probably still
be in one of PPG’s coatings businesses.
USG: Do you have a favorite quote/saying you could
share?
JP: “Sixty percent of the time it works every time.” -Brian Fantana.
Or, on a more serious note, “A salesperson’s quality of life is directly
related to the quality of the goods and services he/she sells.” –Doug
Zacharias
Darrell Smith, 65, currently serves as executive
director of the International Window Film Association (IWFA). The work
of the window film industry continues to affect and influence the glass
industry, hence its inclusion here. Smith earned his bachelor’s degree
in economics from Wake Forest University, followed by graduate studies
in business administration at the University of North Carolina, Virginia
Tech and the University of Virginia. His first job in the window film
industry came in 1971 when he went to work for Martin Processing Co. as
a management trainee; he worked for that company in various positions
in operations, distribution, product development and sales and marketing
as it became HCA-Martin Inc. and then Courtaulds Performance Films. In
1996 he was asked to head the IWFA.
USG: What do you think is the biggest challenge
for the industry right now?
DS: To understand that it is not just the window film industry,
or just part of the glazing solutions industry, but is part of an entire
building envelope system.
USG: What would you be doing for a living if not
what you do now?
DS: Teaching at the college level.
USG: Do you have a favorite quote/saying you could
share?
DS: “The person who knows ‘how’ will always have a job. The person
who knows ‘why’ will always be his boss.” –Diane Ravitch
Rich Walker, 62, currently serves as president
and CEO of the American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA).
He holds a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering and master’s of business
administration in finance. He first entered the glass industry as a staff
engineer for Dow Corning in June 1973.
USG: What do you think is the biggest challenge
for the industry right now?
RW: Regulation overreach, in particular within the Environmental
Protection Agency.
USG: What would you be doing for a living if not
what you do now?
RW: Flying a commercial airliner.
USG: Do you have a favorite quote/saying you could
share?
RW: “That’s my gift. I let that negativity roll off me like water
off a duck’s back. If it’s not positive, I didn’t hear it. If you can
overcome that, fights are easy.” –George Foreman, boxer
Margaret Webb, 56, currently serves as executive
director of the Insulating Glass Manufacturers Alliance (IGMA). She earned
her biochemical technology and financial management certificate from Algonquin
College and is a Certified Human Resources Professional through Carleton
University. Her entry into the glass industry came with her job at Phillip
Sharp Architect in 1986, followed by her position with the Canadian Manufactured
Housing Institute in 1991.
USG: What do you think is the biggest challenge
for the industry right now?
MW: Rapid code changes in an economic downturn.
USG: What would you be doing for a living if not
what you do now?
MW: Math teacher.
USG: Do you have a favorite quote/saying you could
share?
MW: It can be quite frustrating these days if you’re involved in
codes. It can be difficult to maintain perspective so I often say, “In
a hundred years, we’ll all be dead.” It’s a steal from The January Man.
The Primaries at the Primaries
Where the primaries move, so follow the fabricators and glaziers, and
so on down the line. These individuals have the challenge of making the
decisions that affect the entire glass chain. Please note: Serge Martin
of AGC Flat Glass and J. Richard Alexander of PPG Industries declined
to be interviewed for this article.
Dick Altman, 55,currently serves as regional
director, architectural glass SBU – North America NSG Group/Pilkington
North America Inc. He earned his master’s of business administration in
1983 from the University of Toledo, following a bachelor’s degree in business
economics from the College of Wooster. His career in the glass industry
began as a financial analyst for Libbey Owens Ford Co. in June 1979.
USG: What do you think is the biggest challenge
for the industry right now?
DA: There are several challenges facing the industry at the moment
and identifying the “biggest” is a challenge in and of itself. The underlying
markets supporting the glass industry have gone through a major downsizing
and it is hard to see when, or if, we will return to the levels that the
current capacity in the industry is able to support. This puts a lot of
stress on the industry at all levels. A key will be identifying new applications
for glass in the future.
USG: What would you be doing for a living if not
what you do now?
DA: Teaching and/or coaching is something that has always interested
me, probably due to the fact that I like working with people.
USG: Do you have a favorite quote/saying you could
share?
DA: “It is amazing what can happen when no one cares who gets the
credit.”
Richard (Dick) A. Beuke, 59, currently
serves as vice president of flat glass for PPG Industries. He earned his
bachelor’s degree in business from Georgia Southern University and degree
in executive management from Columbia University. His career in the glass
industry began in the summer of 1974 when he hung curtainwall as an ironworker
between college semesters.
USG: What do you think is the biggest challenge
for the industry right now?
RB: Dealing with the reinvestment economics of an underutilized
industry. Explaining to customers the fundamental lack of capacity that
will exist when the construction markets turn around.
USG: What would you be doing for a living if not
what you do now?
RB: Building, improving or fixing something. I am personally motivated
by studying a situation and making it better. The construction industry
has always kept my attention because I get so much satisfaction from light
and color and finish and design.
USG: Do you have a favorite quote/saying you could
share?
RB: From the ESPN sports bloopers: “c’mon man.” Nothing frustrates
me more than when my people do something that does not engage with a customer.
Customers want us to be successful so we can help them be successful.
Scott Thomsen, 48, currently serves as president
of Guardian Glass. He holds both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in engineering.
His entry into the glass industry came in April 1999 when he was hired
as Guardian Industries’ director of science and technology.
USG: What do you think is the biggest challenge
for the industry right now?
ST: The biggest challenge facing the glass industry is how companies
can be successful under difficult market conditions with flat to limited
growth. Every company must have sustainable, competitive advantages; otherwise,
they will be relegated to sub-par financial performance.
USG: What would you be doing for a living if not
what you do now?
ST: Professional photographer or travel guide.
USG: Do you have a favorite quote/saying you could
share?
ST: You need to have a high sense of urgency when things are going
well and when things are going poorly. Roger O’Shaughnessy, president
of Cardinal Corp., began as a factory worker with Cardinal Insulated Glass
Co. in 1967 and worked his way through the ranks, and has reigned as president
of the glass manufacturer for 45 years.
While O’Shaughnessy declined to be interviewed for this
article, he offered the following insight into his company’s reputation
as being very low-key during a 2007 interview with USGlass publisher
Debra Levy. “Part of it comes from the personalities involved,” said O’Shaughnessy.
“Part of it is because of the market we are in. We are an OEM supplier
to numerous major branded window companies. Branded window companies want
their own brand out front. They don’t want their supplier in the spotlight
or becoming a brand of their own. We take care of our customers. We keep
our names off the trucks. Other glass companies have different markets.”
The Product Prophets
Without product promotion, architects would be putting monolithic glass
in tiny openings on every building. These product people stay busy constantly
promoting glass in all of its varied forms.
Christopher Dolan, 52, currently serves as director
of commercial glass marketing for Guardian Industries Corp. He earned
his bachelor’s degree in business administration from Western Michigan
University and his master’s in business administration from the Wharton
School of the University of Pennsylvania. He first entered the glass industry
as Guardian Industries’ manager of planning and development in April 1991.
USG: What do you think is the biggest challenge
for the industry right now?
CD: The level of global competition will only increase so innovation
and differentiation will continue to grow in importance.
USG: What would you be doing for a living if not
what you do now?
CD: I would be working in some aspect of business. I have had jobs
in one area or another in business since my first paper route job a long
time ago.
USG: Do you have a favorite quote/saying you could
share?
CD: There is no substitute for paying attention.
Jason Funk, 35, currently serves as president
of Western Window Systems. He earned his bachelor’s degree in global business
management from Arizona State University, then pursued his master’s in
business administration there as well. His first job in the glass industry
came in March 1999, when he was hired as human resources manager for Western.
USG: What do you think is the biggest challenge
for the industry right now?
JF: Finding creative ways to adjust outdated business models to
meet our new economic reality … To succeed in this new reality, businesses
in our industry have to find creative ways to differentiate themselves
between competition, and work hard to communicate how their companies’
products and business philosophies mesh with the consumer’s own value
system. To put it very simply, we all have to be better. Because the glazing
industry is so tied to the construction economy, every company within
it must work harder than ever to keep up with new consumer buying trends.
USG: What would you be doing for a living if not
what you do now?
JF: I strongly believe I would be somewhere that satisfied my sense
of adventure and love of the outdoors … If I wasn’t leading Western, I
am confident I would be leading an organization that either was helping
to preserve and protect [the national] parks, or was a business that was
providing products or services that helped individuals foster a deep love
for exploring and experiencing the parks’ wonders themselves.
USG: Do you have a favorite quote/saying you could
share?
JF: “There is a way to do it better. Find it.” -Thomas Edison
Robert (Bob) Price, 54, currently serves as director
of sales for J.E. Berkowitz. He earned his degree in hospitality management
and first entered the glass industry working for Hordis Brothers Glass
in 1978.
USG: What do you think is the biggest challenge
for the industry right now?
BP: The industry is challenged with “under-funding your 401(k).”
USG: What would you be doing for a living if not
what you do now?
BP: Be a part of the culinary industry as a chef … or inventor
… or president.
USG: Do you have a favorite quote/saying you could
share?
BP: Good things happen to good people.
Bill Wilson, 58, currently serves as president
of Specified Systems Inc., the company he founded in 1992. He began his
education in liberal arts with a concentration in criminal justice, before
opting instead to work full-time in the building products industry. His
first job in the industry was in 1975 with Three Rivers Aluminum Co.,
which later became Traco and now is Kawneer.
USG: What do you think is the biggest challenge
for the industry right now?
BW: To sustain itself in what has become a bad economic outlook.
Costs are rising, but selling prices are static or dropping. Supply chains
are changing through mergers and consolidations, which also is disruptive
to the business model. Electronic media has placed demands that reduce
timeframes for quoting and project development. Emphasis is on speed rather
than quality assessments that impact a project.
USG: What would you be doing for a living if not
what you do now?
BW: If I weren’t doing what I am doing now, I would be lost, but
I think I would go for something that wasn’t as asset-based or at least
wasn’t as long-term performance-based. Wholesaling cars kind of appeals
to me even though I know nothing about it.
USG: Do you have a favorite quote/saying you could
share?
BW: Since I am a former high school softball coach I have always
said that the fundamentals are what counts. Make the other team beat you.
Don’t beat yourself. Do what you do better than the other guy and you
will have success.
The Contract Glaziers
It’s all about the installation—and the engineering that makes a unique
installation successful. These individuals know how to work closely with
architects to create increasingly unique structures that still keep buildings
efficient and secure. Please note: Alberto de Gobbi of Permasteelisa
North America Corp. declined to be interviewed for this feature.
Attila Arian, 48, serves as president of Seele
Inc. and head of the North American business of the Seele Group. He earned
his master’s degree in industrial engineering from the Technical University
in Darmstadt, Germany. His first position in the glass industry was with
Seele, two and a half years ago, after 18 years of management experience
in the construction industry.
USG: What do you think is the biggest challenge
for the industry right now?
AA: During the recession, a lot of contractors took jobs below
their own costs and agreed to terms and conditions that will have a lasting
impact on the industry for the years to come.
USG: What would you be doing for a living if not
what you do now?
AA: For me the why is more important than the what. I am doing
what I do because I am passionate about architecture and I am committed
and disciplined to deliver greatness and quality.
USG: Do you have a favorite quote/saying you could
share?
AA: “If you are going through hell, keep going.” -Winston Churchill
Nick Bagatelos, 48, currently serves as president
of Bisem USA. He received his bachelor’s degree from Claremont McKenna
College. His entry into the glass industry was as co-owner of Commercial
Window Systems in 1987.
USG: What do you think is the biggest challenge
for the industry right now?
NB: The economy is the biggest challenge. Once we are over this
mess, the next challenge will be to rethink what the exterior envelope
is. There are products available now that will allow the wall to dictate
the lighting and mechanical systems of the building. Those options will
change the way buildings are built in a significant way.
USG: What would you be doing for a living if not
what you do now?
NB: I would own a record label.
USG: Do you have a favorite quote/saying you could
share?
NB: Well, I don’t have a quote, but my daily practice is to increase
my awareness … awareness of myself, the people around me and my business.
Victor Cornellier, 69, currently serves as president
and CEO of TSI/Exterior Wall Systems Inc. He earned his bachelor’s degree
from Boston University. His first job within the glass industry was as
a management trainee with PPG Industries.
USG: What do you think is the biggest challenge
for the industry right now?
VC: Avoiding failure and restoring confidence in the banking and
surety industry that we are a trustworthy and profitable industry. The
failures of 2012 have done very little to assure the financial partners
that we, as an industry, really know what we are doing. The second challenge
is understanding how to deal with Chinese competition and vendors, which
is slowly creating a paradigm in our industry.
USG: What would you be doing for a living if not
what you do now?
VC: After 48 years in this business, and 35 of those years at TSI,
that’s tough to answer. I would probably be in the development business
harassing glass companies.
USG: Do you have a favorite quote/saying you could
share?
VC: Telling the truth never hurts, and be thankful that you have
the opportunity to do so.
Ali Ghahremani, 52, currently serves as president
and CEO of Champion Metal & Glass. He earned his bachelor’s degree in
architecture from the National University of Iran. His entry into the
glass industry came in 1988, when he served as an estimator for Cantor
Brothers Glass.
USG: What do you think is the biggest challenge
for the industry right now?
AG: In today’s turbulent economy, maintaining a safe profit margin
on a job is critical. I’ve seen far too many contractors and subcontractors
go under after dropping their numbers below the safe line.
USG: What would you be doing for a living if not
what you do now?
AG: I would be a commercial airline pilot. I possess a private
pilot’s license and love the challenges and exhilaration of flying.
USG: Do you have a favorite quote/saying you could
share
AG: “Take care of those who work for you and you’ll float to greatness
on their achievements.” -H. S. M. Burns
Ed Zaucha, 62, currently serves as CEO of APG
International Inc. He graduated from Villanova University in 1972, after
which he spent eight years in public accounting and consulting with Deloitte
& Touche. While with Deloitte, he was involved in many of the firm’s largest
accounts, including some construction companies. In 1980, he was recruited
by one of the firm’s construction clients and accepted a position an officer
and shareholder. His first job in the glazing industry came in 1990, when
he negotiated a “workout” with the major creditors of National Glass &
Metal Co. thereby negating an impending bankruptcy filing.
USG: What do you think is the biggest challenge
for the industry right now?
EZ: We have had a long recession in which many contract glaziers
have tried to survive by bidding work at or below cost in the hopes of
“dollar averaging” this out with more profitable work as the economy turns
around. Unfortunately, this hasn’t happened and now we’re seeing some
major contractors fail. We hear there are a number of others that are
teetering on the edge as well. The challenge it presents for all of us
now is that owners and construction managers seem to be stringing out
payments because of the fear and uncertainty in the industry, which makes
cash flow a big challenge.
USG: What would you be doing for a living if not
what you do now?
EZ: A company controller/CFO … or simply playing golf everyday
in Georgia.
USG: Do you have a favorite quote/saying you could
share?
EZ: As you get older (and more experienced in the industry) you
develop many favorite sayings. I have actually given serious consideration
to writing a book with each chapter surrounding a “favorite saying” and
its meaning. A couple are:
• “It’s very easy to say NO—it’s harder to say YES.” We have a reputation
for taking on and achieving some very complicated projects. We also spend
many hours each year assisting architects with designs; our motto is “Turning
Inspiration into Reality.” As part of the process of helping architects
achieve their inspirational designs you need to push the extremes of what
has been done and, accordingly, major vendors will frequently say “No,
no, no—this isn’t possible!” When you challenge them, prod and push—they
eventually come around to “well, let’s see what we can do.” Working on
a truly collaborative basis you frequently can achieve what wasn’t previously
done or thought to even be possible.
• “In our industry, any one project can kill you.” Being a large contract
glazier, it is critical to properly estimate, manage and execute each
and every contract. The profit margins in our industry frequently do not
effectively compensate us for the level of risks that we accept and, therefore,
one misstep can be a disaster.
• “Find suppliers and vendors that make us look great—not bad.” As a company
we “partner or collaborate” with our team on all projects. We expect a
great deal of support from our team but we’re extremely loyal to them
all. This includes our union labor partners. They are what makes us look
great!
Jeff Leone, 51, currently serves as CEO of Trulite
Glass and Aluminum Solutions. He earned his bachelor’s degree in chemistry
from Carnegie Mellon University. His entry into the glass industry came
with his current post, which he undertook in July 2010.
USG: What do you think is the biggest challenge
for the industry right now?
JL: The extended period of low construction growth.
USG: Do you have a favorite quote/saying you could
share?
JL: “On time and on spec every time.”
Beth Lesniak, 31, currently serves as vice president
of Grey Mountain Partners and affiliated manager of Consolidated Glass
Holdings Inc. She graduated from Duke University. Her first job in the
glass industry came when Grey Mountain Partners worked with Arch Aluminum
& Glass to try and avoid bankruptcy and restructure the business in 2009.
She also was more passively involved in the arena in 2007 as an investor
in the residential door and window manufacturer Polar Window of Canada,
based in Winnipeg.
USG: What do you think is the biggest challenge
for the industry right now?
BL: I don’t think anyone would argue that the industry has gone
through unprecedented turmoil and economic duress over the past few years.
With such upheaval often comes a natural shift away from managing the
business in order to maximize service and quality to making decisions
focused on maintaining liquidity and staying alive for another day. I
think we are beginning to see signs of life in the market, but it will
be a slow progression back to health in the industry. Given that, I believe
many businesses find they have scaled back, but now need capital and other
resources to invest back in the business in order to handle growth and
get back to prioritizing service, quality, employee morale and vendor
relationships. Many business owners still have healing wounds and would
like to risk share going forward, but to do so, they need to align with
strong partners who share their visions. That is where a group like Grey
Mountain, with a focus on operational improvement and conservative capitalization,
can enter the picture and provide the requisite support.
USG: What would you be doing for a living
if not what you do now?
BL: Professional ballerina; I have danced most of my life and still
indulge today in my spare time on a non-professional level.
USG: Do you have a favorite quote/saying you could
share?
BL: “Hard work spotlights the character of people: some turn up
their sleeves, some turn up their noses, and some don’t turn up at all.”
-Sam Ewing
Diana Perreiah, 47, currently serves as vice president
of Alcoa Building and Construction Systems and general manager of Kawneer
North America. She earned her bachelor’s degree in computational science
from Hollins University. She began her 26-year career in the aluminum
industry with Alcoa in the aluminum can sheet division. Her first position
in the glass industry was as vice president of business operations when
she joined Kawneer North America in 2009.
USG: What do you think is the biggest challenge
for the industry right now?
DP: The biggest challenge I see facing the industry is the uncertainty
of the U.S. building and construction market recovery, which most likely
is headed for a fourth year at the bottom of the lowest downturn on record.
Also, uncertainty in the global financial markets is a challenge for us
in the United States.
USG: Do you have a favorite quote/saying you could
share?
DP: “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens
can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.” -Margaret
Mead
David Petratis, 54, currently serves as chairman
and CEO of Quanex, his first post within the glass industry. Petratis
earned his bachelor’s degree in industrial management from the University
of Northern Iowa and his master’s of business administration from Pepperdine
University, and holds numerous professional development certificates.
USG: What do you think is the biggest challenge for
the industry right now?
DP: There remains significant overcapacity across the board. It
doesn’t matter whether it’s on the fabrication side or components side,
there’s just significant overcapacity on a worldwide basis.
USG: What would you be doing for a living if not
what you do now?
DP: If I wasn’t doing what I’m doing now I’d be in a role where
I was helping people to grow, to fulfill themselves … I’d be in a role
where I’m helping people to do their best.
USG: Do you have a favorite quote/saying you could
share?
DP: “All progress depends on the unreasonable man.” -George Bernard
Shaw
Joseph Puishys, 54, currently serves as president
and CEO of Apogee Enterprises. He earned his bachelor’s degree in accounting
and finance from Bryant University, followed by a master’s in business
administration from Providence College. His first job in the glass industry
is his current role, which he has held since August 2011; prior to that,
he spent 10 years in commercial construction industry products and services
with Honeywell.
USG: What do you think is the biggest challenge
for the industry right now?
JP: Changing the paradigm of cyclical performance. The longest
period of stagnation in end markets means all of us need to act differently
and get out of our comfort zones—starting with employees and by focusing
on geography, technology and partnerships.
USG: What would you be doing for a living if not
what you do now?
JP: Restoring and selling American muscle cars.
USG: Do you have a favorite quote/saying you could
share?
JP: Family first, but bleed company blood. The Metal Meisters Where
there goes glass, there goes metal. These individuals are constantly working
to make those transitions and connections work better and stronger than
ever before.
Please note: Mike Farquhar of EFCO Corp., a Pella Co.,
Tom Harris of U.S. Aluminum, and Max Mizota of YKK Corp. declined to be
interviewed for this feature.
Steve Green, 59, currently serves as director
of sales for Tubelite Inc. He earned his education from Southern Illinois
University, Penn State University and the U.S. Air Force. His first job
in the glass industry was as contract manager for Erie Window Glass Co.
in September 1976.
USG: What do you think is the biggest challenge
for the industry right now?
SG: Maneuvering through an economic environment of fear. Establishing
a mindset that everyone should be challenged to run a profitable business
and not sacrifice the bottom line for the sake of the sale.
USG: What would you be doing for a living if not
what you do now?
SG: That is a good question. I initially got into the industry
working for a glazing contractor and eventually bought the business with
a partner. My best guess is that I would still be in that business had
I not been presented with other opportunities.
USG: Do you have a favorite quote/saying you could
share?
SG: “Over-promise and over-deliver.” This forces you to challenge
yourself as well as hold yourself accountable.
Tony Leto, 58, currently serves as executive vice
president, sales and marketing, for the Wagner Cos. He earned his bachelor’s
degree from Queens College - City University of New York (CUNY), followed
by a master’s of fine arts from Brooklyn College - CUNY. He began his
career in the glass industry doing inside sales in 1984 for Julius Blum
and Co. Inc.
USG: What do you think is the biggest challenge
for the industry right now?
TL: The obvious answer remains the economy—most notably, the lack of new
construction.
USG: What would you be doing for a living if not
what you do now?
TL: Oddly enough, my graduate degree is in theater administration.
I worked at various university theaters before becoming involved with
the glass and metal industries. So most likely, my career track would
have remained in higher education and I would most likely be teaching.
USG: Do you have a favorite quote/saying
you could share?
TL: “Life is what happens to you while you’re busy making other
plans.” -John Lennon
Glen Morrison, 50, currently serves as president
of Alcoa Building and Construction Systems. He earned his bachelor’s degree
in business studies from Coventry University. His first position in the
glass industry was as sales and marketing director for Kawneer United
Kingdom in 1991.
USG: What do you think is the biggest challenge
for the industry right now?
GM: The biggest challenge facing the industry in the United States
is the uncertainty created by the volatility in the global economy and
the potential ramifications that this volatility may have on the funding
of commercial construction.
USG: Do you have a favorite quote/saying you could
share?
GM: “I keep six honest serving-men: (They taught me all I knew.)
Their names are What and Why and When and How and Where and Who.” -Rudyard
Kipling
Mark Silverberg, 61, currently serves as president
of Technoform North America Inc. He holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology.
His entry in the glass industry began at age six, when he helped his dad
glaze a new motel in Fostoria, Ohio. “I probably was more in the way than
helped,” he recalls. He adds, “My first ‘real’ job was for Stern and Co.
Inc. as a sales representative, January 1, 1984.”
USG: What do you think is the biggest challenge
for the industry right now?
MS: Revenue generation for innovative technologies, which command
appropriate value to their benefits, and fuel new innovations.
USG: What would you be doing for a living if not
what you do now?
MS: My favorite hobby, which is documentary photography for nonprofit
organizations working to make a positive difference in the world. I don’t
think I could make a living at it, though.
USG: Do you have a favorite quote/saying you could
share?
MS: “We cannot solve our problems with the same level of thought
that created them.” –Albert Einstein
The Fabricators
No matter how great the glass produced by primaries, it still has to come
together just right on the fabrication level. These individuals are making
sure the product that hits the market is efficient and shows the high
level of quality of which our industry is capable. Please note: Arthur
Berkowitz of J.E. Berkowitz, Chris McGrory of McGrory Glass, and Ed Rosengrant,
Randy Steinberg, Ruben Huerta and Dennis Jasmer of Glasswerks declined
to be interviewed for this feature.
John Dwyer, 53, currently serves as president of
Syracuse Glass Co. and treasurer of Centric, the association management
company that is owned by and provides management services to the Glass
Association of North America (GANA). He earned his master’s in business
administration in finance from Boston College, after his bachelor’s degree
in political science from Lemoyne College. His first job in the glass
industry was helping run his uncle’s glass shop, Road Runner Glass, during
his summer break in 1976. “Hacking out putty from steel sash windows using
a torch and chisel, in high heat and humidity, motivated me to study for
years,” he recalls.
USG: What do you think is the biggest challenge
for the industry right now?
JD: Global competition is a huge challenge. We don’t sell glass
to the few furniture manufacturers that are still open near us. A shopping
mall near us is expanding, and the developer is purchasing imported product
directly and hiring local glaziers to do the installation only. We’re
supplying non-typical sized material only. Supplying small orders of increasingly
complex non-typically sized material day-in, day-out, profitably, is another
challenge.
USG: What would you be doing for a living if not
what you do now?
JD: I’ve started the college tour thing with my 17-year-old son.
I’d love to get a little more education in the sciences or maybe engineering,
and get into research or work on big infrastructure projects.
USG: Do you have a favorite quote/saying you could
share?
JD: “Let’s not get too busy cutting down trees that we don’t forget
to sharpen our saws.”
Eugene Negrin, 60, currently serves as president
of Galaxy Glass and Stone in Fairfield, N.J. He earned his bachelor’s
degree in science management and industrial labor relations from New York
University’s College of Business and Public Administration. His entry
into the glass industry was working for a glass replacement shop specializing
in oversized and technically difficult glass replacement.
USG: What do you think is the biggest challenge
for the industry right now?
EN: We presently have an extraordinary opportunity to create and
offer a variety of custom decorative architectural glass as the markets
continue to demand it. Failure of these products due to lack of testing
and poor manufacturing techniques by unqualified or unscrupulous manufacturers
has the potential to diminish this appetite due to fear of product failure
and culpability.
USG: What would you be doing for a living if not
what you do now?
EN: I cannot imagine. This has been the road taken for the past
36 years.
USG: Do you have a favorite quote/saying you could
share?
EN: One of my dearest friends and mentor in the glass business
was Bernie Myers of Boss Glass Distributors (no longer in business). Bernie
was a bon vivant and pilot with a zest for life and he came from nothing
and built a substantial and highly successful business. He used to say,
“If I died tomorrow and could come back as anyone in the world that I
wanted to, I would come back as Bernie Myers.”
William O’Keeffe Jr. currently serves as
chairman of the board for Safti First. His entry to the glass industry
began at age 15, working for O’Keeffe’s Inc. “installing skylights in
117-degree temperatures on a roof in Chico, Calif.,” he recalls.
USG: By what standard do you measure your own
success?
WO: By the impact that success has on the people I’m associated
with and the overall well-being and development of the company.
USG: What do you think is the biggest challenge
for the industry right now?
WO: Providing protection from the onslaught of bankruptcies that
are happening while still serving our customers’ needs.
USG: What would you be doing for a living
if not what you do now? WO: Pearl diver on a tropical island. USG: Do
you have a favorite quote/saying you could share?
WO: “There, by the grace of God, go I.”
Nathalie Thibault, 33, currently serves as administrative
director of Prelco Inc. She holds a bachelor’s degree in international
business. Her entry into the glass industry came in November 2003 when
she was hired as project manager in sales for Prelco.
USG: By what standard do you measure your own
success?
NT: By the judgment of my experienced colleagues and other stakeholders
that share with us.
USG: What is your biggest business pet
peeve?
NT: Work that is done too informally.
USG: What do you think is the biggest challenge
for the industry right now?
NT: The fragile status of the overall world economy.
USG: By whom are you/have you been influenced
the most?
NT: Our senior managers and other industry legends.
USG: What would you like your industry legacy
to be?
NT: A great example of innovation and overachievement.
USG: What would you be doing for a living if not
what you do now?
NT: I would fill a management position in any industry that is
of interest to me.
USG: Do you have a favorite quote/saying you could
share?
NT: It would be in French! “Y’en aura pas de facile!”
The Code Talkers
Without those individuals keeping an eye on the latest code changes, the
industry’s standards might not be up to the challenge of meeting them.
From ANSI to ASHRAE and ICC to GICC, our industry alphabet soup takes
a lot of patience and tech know-how to keep up with.
Valerie Block, 60, currently serves as senior marketing
specialist for DuPont Glass Laminating Solutions. She earned her master’s
degree in organizational dynamics from the University of Pennsylvania
in 1991, following a master’s degree from the University of Michigan in
1974 and a bachelor’s degree from Ithaca College in 1973. Her first job
in the glass industry was for her family’s business, Laminated Glass Corp.,
in 1976.
USG: What would you be doing for a living if not
what you do now?
VB: It might be interesting to be a journalist. I’ve always liked
writing.
USG: Do you have a favorite quote/saying
you could share?
VB: “Success is liking yourself, liking what you do, and liking
how you do it.” -Maya Angelou
Julie Schimmelpenningh, 46, currently serves as
global architectural applications manager for Solutia. She earned her
bachelor’s degree in biology and chemistry from Emmanuel College. Her
entry into the glass industry was as a research scientist for Monsanto
in 1988.
USG: What do you think is the biggest challenge
for the industry right now?
JS: Sustaining companies and maintaining valuable resources through
the economic hardship.
USG: What would you be doing for a living if not
what you do now?
JS: Flight instructor and scuba diving instructor. Of course, you
can’t do one, then immediately follow with the other, because of the “bends”
so I would need to take a day off in-between!
USG: Do you have a favorite quote/saying you could
share?
JS: “… Don’t look backwards for very long. We keep moving forward,
opening up new doors and doing new things, because we’re curious ... and
curiosity keeps leading us down new paths.” -Walt Disney Co.
The Go-To Guys
Whether there’s an unusual problem to be solved or simply a question as
to whether or not a glass design is feasible, it’s helpful to have an
expert on-hand who is curious as to the limits of what is possible with
glass.
John Bush, 54, currently serves as plant manager
at General Glass International. He earned his degree in engineering from
the University of Cambridge, followed by a master’s in business administration
at the University of Newcastle-upon-Tyne. His entry into the glass industry
came with his role as technical director at Romag. In 1988 he began developing
specialty laminated glass, including bullet- and bomb-resistant glass.
USG: What do you think is the biggest challenge
for the industry right now?
JB: Attracting bright new graduates and having the confidence to
invest in new technology.
USG: What would you be doing for a living if not
what you do now?
JB: Working for a Formula 1 racing team. The technology they develop
is stunning. I can’t wait for next year when there will be a race on the
streets of New Jersey overlooking Manhattan.
USG: Do you have a favorite quote/saying you could
share?
JB: “My policies are based not on some economics theory, but on
things I and millions like me were brought up with: an honest day’s work
for an honest day’s pay; live within your means; put by a nest egg for
a rainy day; pay your bills on time; support the police.” -Margaret Thatcher
Mic Patterson, 63, currently serves as
director of strategic development for the Enclos Advanced Technology Studio;
as he explains it, his job is to anticipate the future of the building
skin. He currently is a doctoral candidate at the University of Southern
California School of Architecture. His entry into the glass industry came
in 1979, when he first served as a designer for Synestructics.
USG: What do you think is the biggest challenge
for the industry right now?
MP: Embracing change, abandoning vested interests, and innovating
and educating ourselves and our clients about true life cycle costs and
impacts.
USG: What would you be doing for a living if not
what you do now?
MP: Writing adventure novels, painting and photographing in Southeast
Asia, which just goes to show how much I love my job!
USG: Do you have a favorite quote/saying
you could share?
MP: “I’m not trying to counsel any of you to do anything really
special except dare to think. And to dare to go with the truth. And to
dare to really love completely.” –Richard Buckminster Fuller
Henry Taylor, 71, currently serves as chairman
of the board and CEO of Architectural Testing, having transferred his
former responsibilities of president and chief operating officer on April
1, 2012. He completed three years toward a mechanical engineering course
at Ohio State University. His first job in the glass industry was with
Graham Engineering in 1964, serving in the design of architectural products
and the design and construction of tooling and machinery to manufacture
them.
USG: What do you think is the biggest challenge
for the industry right now?
HT: By far the biggest challenge to the testing industry is to
limit liability to its own work. In many cases, the owners, contractors
and architects attempt to require the testing agency to indemnify them
from all liability even if the testing agency has minimum or no responsibility.
Further, workers compensation laws and awards transfer wealth to others
well beyond reason and government reporting paperwork is growing exponentially.
USG: What would you be doing for a living
if not what you do now?
HT: If not developing Architectural Testing, I would likely have
pursued at least one of the two possible paths. When I decided to start
my business, I was well into flying twin-engine aircraft while training
for a commercial pilot license. Further, I considered returning to college
for my mechanical engineering degree while enhancing my skills with computers.
USG: Do you have a favorite quote/saying
you could share?
HT: When someone indicates they have a question I typically reply,
“Go right ahead, I have answers for questions that haven’t even been thought
of yet.”
The Decorative Types
Although eye-catching glass is taking the architecture world by storm,
it takes a lot of creativity and business savvy to create and promote
these new combinations of glass to the world.
Marc Deschamps, 52, currently serves as
business development manager for Walker Glass. He earned his bachelor’s
degree in commerce/management at McGill University. His first job in the
glass industry was as chief financial officer of Lamiver in 1992.
USG: What do you think is the biggest challenge
for the industry right now?
MD: By far, it’s to adapt to the rapidly changing needs of the
market, the focus being on unique and exclusive design intents with appropriate
green performance.
USG: What would you be doing for a living if not
what you do now?
MD: I would definitely be involved in online/Internet marketing.
The web, as a market, is fascinating, is evolving at the speed of light
and offers exciting challenges.
USG: Do you have a favorite quote/saying you could
share?
MD: This is a great quote that applies to our personal and business
lives: “Don’t ask what your country can do for you, but what you can do
for your country.”
Bernard Lax, 55, currently serves as CEO
of Pulp Studio Inc. He holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration.
After a long and successful career in the garment/fashion business, his
first job in the glass industry was his position with Pulp.
USG: What do you think is the biggest challenge
for the industry right now?
BL: The lack of our customers vetting product quality and differences
prior to purchasing.
USG: What would you be doing for a living if not
what you do now?
BL: Developing new innovations for various industrial applications.
USG: Do you have a favorite quote/saying you could
share?
BL: Just because a designer believes in unicorns doesn’t make them
real.
Mandy Marxen, 41, currently serves as vice
president of marketing for Gardner Glass Products Inc. She holds a degree
in journalism advertising from University of North Carolina at Chapel
Hill, and has nearly completed an additional bachelor’s degree in studio
art. Her first job in the glass industry was with Gardner Mirrors, when
she was hired in 1993 to do line-art for mirrors.
USG: What would you be doing for a living
if not what you do now?
MM: Probably trying to sell my paintings on the side of the road.
I’d still have to be coming up with ideas daily to get out into the world
somehow. I’m not good for much else.
USG: Do you have a favorite quote/saying
you could share?
MM: “No great thing is created suddenly.” –Epictetus. It’s a good
reminder for patience and discipline, both things that I struggle with
daily.
Kris Vockler, 41, currently serves as CEO of ICD
Coatings. She holds a bachelor’s degree in geology and has nearly completed
her master’s in business administration; she also holds various coating
specific chemistry certifications. Her first job in the glass industry
was with ICD in 1996, serving as a research and development lab technician.
USG: What do you think is the biggest challenge
for the industry right now?
KV: Taking the time to evaluate materials going into the end product
properly. With how fast our markets are changing and we are adapting to
it, leaving commonsense and good qualification methods to the wayside
will only get us in trouble.
USG: What would you be doing for a living
if not what you do now?
KV: Helping others grow in some way, I would hope. Those who have
inspired me from a young age were those who started non-profits to help
others or created something to help people, like a product.
USG: Do you have a favorite quote/saying
you could share?
KV: “Treat people as if they were what they ought to be, and you
help them to become what they are capable of being.” -Goethe
The Titans of Technology
Without the latest in machinery innovations and the creative software
running it, the innovative designs devised by the industry’s bright minds
would never come to fruition. These individuals regularly take on the
challenge of improving the production process.
Stefano Bavelloni,
46, currently serves as managing director of Neptun, which he founded
in 2008. He earned his degree in mechanical engineering, and then entered
the glass industry in 1990 as area manager for Z. Bavelloni.
USG: What do you
think is the biggest challenge for the industry right now?
SB: The challenges in the industry probably change a lot according
to the economical arena. A trend that I see quite uniformly distributed
in the world is the need for increases in flexibility in production. This
is an indirect effect of the stock reduction policy, which is generally
achieved by all companies in the industry supply chain, and not only in
the glass industry. This causes a reduction in batch quantities which,
in some cases, are reduced to single pieces and brings the need of quicker
and frequent production change and quicker delivery time. This is not
an easy issue to manage in a company.
USG: What would you
be doing for a living if not what you do now?
SB: Considering that Neptun is a my recent start-up and before
it I was totally free to choose what else to do, having chosen this way
means that it is my favorite option. If I really would have to think of
an alternative I would join the Forest Guard on the Alps.
USG: Do you have
a favorite quote/saying you could share?
SB: “If you look ahead when you create ... then you will innovate.
If you look ahead when you choose ... then you will win.”
Ron Crowl, 49, currently
serves as president and CEO of FeneTech Inc. He earned his bachelor’s
degree in electrical engineering technology from the Rochester Institute
of Technology. His first position in the glass industry was as an engineer
for RoviSys in 1994.
USG: What do you
think is the biggest challenge for the industry right now?
RC: To stay current with technology and trends. To become relevant
in the design phase of a new building project and not an afterthought.
USG: What would you be doing
for a living if not what you do now?
RC: I would be an author. I love to write but just never seem to
find enough time to start that first novel!
USG: Do you have
a favorite quote/saying you could share?
RC: “You can never cost-reduce your way to prosperity.” All opportunities—including
wealth—begin with developing new business.
Hans Hoenig, 52,
currently serves as vice president and director of sales for Lisec America
and regional director, North America, for Lisec. He earned his bachelor’s
degree in engineering from the Federal Department of Construction and
Industry in Austria, and holds a diploma from the College for Textile
Operation Technology in Austria. His entry in the glass industry was through
Lisec, when he was appointed as regional sales manager in 1996.
USG: What do you
think is the biggest challenge for the industry right now?
HH: Continuing to deal with the over-capacity in the market and
how best to re-allocate those under-utilized assets to meet new demands.
USG: What would you
be doing for a living if not what you do now?
HH: Never thought about that, but I would probably be working in
another machinery manufacturing industry, or even still in the nonwoven
machinery industry.
USG: Do you have a favorite
quote/saying you could share?
HH: Work like you don’t need the money! In other words, you should
make all your business decisions without being influenced by anything
or anybody.
The Educators and Ethicists
Horace Mann once said, “A human being is not attaining his full heights
until he is educated.” These individuals are helping the industry attain
its full potential by helping to educate end-users and colleagues alike.
Greg Abel, 63, currently serves as president of Advocates
for Safe Glass. He earned his degree in criminal justice. His first job
in the glass industry came when he founded Safe Glass Consulting, following
his son Jarred’s 2001 wired-glass accident that left him with severe nerve
and tendon damage in his left arm.
USG: What do you think is the biggest challenge
for the industry right now?
GA: The economy.
USG: What would you be doing for a living
if not what you do now?
GA: I am happy with the path that I have chosen.
USG: Do you have a favorite quote/saying
you could share?
GA: That everything happens for a reason; my son, Jarred, taught
me that.
Paul Bieber, 62, currently serves as principal
of Bieber Consulting Group. He earned his bachelor’s degree in business
administration with a major in marketing from Babson College. He entered
the glass industry in 1976 as a salesperson for C.R. Laurence Co. Inc.,
covering Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire and Vermont.
USG: What do you think is the biggest challenge
for the industry right now?
PB: Our industry is not making enough money to keep investing in
new technology, plants and equipment, and educating people.
USG: What would you be doing for a living
if not what you do now?
PB: Here’s a hint: “Take me out to the ballgame … take me out to
the crowd.” If you didn’t get the hint, I would be coaching Little League;
maybe the oldest bat boy for the New York Mets or anything to do with
baseball.
USG: Do you have a favorite quote/saying you could
share?
PB: Yes, taken from the Jewish Bible: “What is hateful to you,
do not do to anyone else. This is the law: all the rest is commentary.”
Lyle Hill, 65, serves as managing director of
Keytech North America. He earned his bachelor’s degree in business administration
and psychology from Olivet Nazarene University and his master’s in business
administration in engineering and technology management from the Illinois
Institute of Technology. He first entered the glass industry in 1970 when
he served as foreman of the plate glass department for the old Tyler and
Hippach Glass.
USG: What do you think is the biggest challenge
for the industry right now?
LH: There is a shakeout and realignment taking place right now
in the architectural side of the glass industry … among the contract glaziers
specifically. Knowing who to align with, what jobs to pursue and so forth,
is very challenging.
USG: What would you be doing for a living
if not what you do now?
LH: I would most likely have been a teacher and coach at the high
school level.
USG: Do you have a favorite quote/saying
you could share?
LH: Love what you are doing and you will never work a day in your
life.
Henry Taylor currently serves as manager
of Kawneer North America’s architectural services team. He earned his
bachelor’s degree in marketing and English from Georgia State University,
followed by a master’s of business administration in management from Kennesaw
State University. After college, he worked for a commercial developer/builder
out of college, where he earned an overview of industrial and commercial
construction. He joined Kawneer in 1995 and, after training, took a position
as the company’s architectural products representative in Detroit.
USG: What do you think is the biggest challenge
for the industry right now?
HT: Time is our biggest challenge. We have so many tools that make
portions of our work and life faster. But these tools do not make all
areas of our lives faster. We live in a society based on instant gratification—one
where I am able to ask my kids a question and in moments they have it
Googled and are presenting answers. There are some aspects of our industry
that have been made faster by today’s tools but the entire construction
process can’t be accelerated. Ours is still a relationship business and
we still do business with the people we want to do it with. It is frustrating
to see time become a bigger driver in our industry than quality, history,
trust and relationships.
USG: What would you be doing for a living
if not what you do now?
HT: I would want to be a high school English teacher and work for
the National Park Service during the summers. USG: Do you have a favorite
quote/saying you could share? HT: “You never get a second chance to make
a first good impression!”
The Branded
While they may prefer moving in the background, these brand gatekeepers
do an exceptional job of keeping their companies’ images in the limelight
and above reproach. Please note: Dave Hewitt of EFCO Corp., a Pella
Co., declined to be interviewed for this feature.
Oliver Stepe, 46, currently serves as senior vice
president for YKK AP America, overseeing all business unit operations,
marketing and engineering. He received his bachelor’s degree in construction
and architectural engineering from the State University of New York at
Farmingdale. His first position in the glass industry was in 1985 as a
draftsperson for a glass and glazing contractor, Cantor Brothers Glass
Corp.
USG: What do you think is the biggest challenge
for the industry right now?
OS: The biggest challenge for the industry is how to evolve from
a historically low-technology to a high-technology industry and one that
is recognized for its tremendous potential to have a significant positive
impact on society by reducing energy consumption.
USG: What would you be doing for a living
if not what you do now?
OS: Driving a race car. It was my childhood dream and since my
wife just gave me a NASCAR adventure as a 15-year wedding anniversary
gift, maybe I will get a chance to experience a piece of that dream after
all!
USG: Do you have a favorite quote/saying you could
share?
OS: It may sound cliché but I find myself quoting our founder’s
philosophy, “The Cycle of Goodness,” and the quotes “If you do good things
for people, they will do good things for you” and “No one prospers unless
he renders benefit to others” oftentimes in professional and personal
settings.
Robert Struble, 47, currently serves as
manager, brand and communications strategy, for PPG’s flat glass business
unit and corporate marketing. He earned his bachelor’s degree in communications
from Clarion University. His entry into the glass industry came in 1992
when he began writing technical manuals and other communications for a
company that supplied the glass industry, Harbison-Walker Refractories
Co. He joined PPG in March 2002 as the manager of marketing communications.
USG: What do you think is the biggest challenge
for the industry right now?
RS: Having seen more than a dozen different industries in my career,
the glass folks seem to have a very hard time selling value. When you
think about what we do, it’s pretty amazing. We take a common, opaque
material and make it transparent and strong. Then we add a practically
invisible coating thinner than a human hair (actually comprised of many
smaller layers) that splits the light spectrum and delivers hundreds of
thousands of dollars worth of energy savings.
USG: What would you be doing for a living
if not what you do now?
RS: I love what I do and, in all honesty, can’t imagine myself
doing anything else. If not here in the glass industry, I’d be somewhere
else building bridges to understanding and communicating value.
USG: Do you have a favorite quote/saying you could
share?
RS: Often attributed to Abraham Lincoln, it goes something like
this: “When your only tool is a hammer, every problem tends to look like
a nail.” I see its truth in advertising as well as the glass industry.
Manufacturers or marketers will tout their products as the best solutions
for your problems (no matter what the problem). For example, there are
glass makers who have only one platform for making low-E coatings and
flog that particular technology regardless of the application. I value
our position at PPG, where we operate multiple platforms and can discuss
the advantages and limitations of each from a base of knowledge and credibility.
Earnest Thompson currently serves as director of
global corporate marketing and branding for Guardian Industries Corp.
He earned his bachelor’s degrees in political science and psychology from
the University of Michigan, with graduate studies in public health and
hospital administration (marketing) there as well. His first position
in the glass industry was his current position with Guardian, which he
began in September 2005.
USG: What do you think is the biggest
challenge for the industry right now?
ET: Making glass innovations a more valued element of the products
and projects we’re in.
USG: What would you be doing for a living
if not what you do now?
ET: I guess it’s too late to play shortstop for the San Francisco
Giants so I’ll settle for blogging about the Giants and Raiders.
USG: Do you have a favorite quote/saying
you could share?
ET: “The team. The team. The team.” –Michigan football coach Bo
Schembechler. Even Steve Jobs didn’t win alone for all of his legend.
It takes a team to take an organization to the top.
Karen Zipfel currently serves as the director
of marketing for Kawneer North America, an Alcoa Co. She earned her bachelor’s
degree in communications from Western Connecticut State University, graduating
magna cum laude. Her entry in the glass industry came with her first position
at Kawneer, for which she was hired in December 1991 as marketing communications
manager.
USG: What do you think is the biggest challenge
for the industry right now?
KZ: There are still many challenges to be faced coming out of the
downturn. In any market, creating differentiation is critical and I see
this as one of the biggest challenges to help sustain leadership and growth
for us and our customers.
USG: What would you be doing for a living
if not what you do now?
KZ: At one time, I thought I might like to own my own business;
an advertising agency or public relations firm. However, I love what I
do; my passion is marketing and branding and I am fortunate to be part
of a highly recognized company with a market-leading brand.
USG: Do you have a favorite quote/saying
you could share?
KZ: “It’s easy to make a buck. It’s a lot tougher to make a difference.”
–Tom Brokaw
USG
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