 GLENVIEW, Ill., April 12, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- Envoy Solutions announced today that it has reached an agreement to acquire Sigma Supply of North America, Inc. ("Sigma Supply"), based in Hot Springs, Arkansas. Sigma Supply provides world-class packaging materials, packaging equipment solutions, and personalized services. With over two dozen locations between Nevada and Maryland, Sigma Supply services customers throughout the U.S. with expert packaging sellers, engineers, and service technicians coast to coast. Sigma Supply is the 12th company to join Envoy Solutions' rapidly growing national platform since August 2021. This combination will expand Envoy Solutions' presence in the packaging solutions space to include the key state of Texas and across the South, and it will support Sigma Supply's continued growth throughout the nation.
"Sigma Supply will be an excellent fit for our differentiated business model that thrives off the power of partnerships," said Mark M. Fisher, CEO of Envoy Solutions. "Packaging Solutions is a core part of our business model, and Sigma Supply will expand our customer base, our capabilities, and our team of experts. Banks, Scott, and Maggie Hambyoversee a top-notch team at Sigma Supply with a family-oriented culture like ours, and with their continued leadership, I'm looking forward to achieving great success together." Since it was founded in 1970, Sigma Supply has seen tremendous growth. In 2019, the company expanded and upgraded six warehouses in multiple regions of the country. Sigma Supply is a one-stop shop for packaging solutions, equipment sales, technical support, and online shopping with same-day shipping for more than 100,000 items. The company, which spans three family generations, is currently run by the Hamby family. They will continue to lead Sigma Supply as part of the new partnership with Envoy Solutions. "We are confident that by joining forces with Envoy Solutions we will take our business to the next level," said Banks Hamby, Co-Owner and Vice President of Sales at Sigma Supply. "This move will exponentially enhance the growth we've already seen as a company." "We look forward to continuing to lead the business that we've run for so long, now with the resources and reach of Envoy Solutions' national platform," said Scott Hamby, Co-Owner and Vice President of Operations at Sigma Supply. "Together, we will transform the way packaging solutions are delivered so that our loyal associates and customers benefit." This transaction is pending customary regulatory approvals and is expected to close in the second quarter of this year. About Envoy Solutions: Envoy Solutions, the nation's premier diversified distribution company, is helping businesses thrive by leveraging the resources and expertise of regional partnerships to make buildings cleaner and people safer. The industry-leading distributor provides a wide array of essential products, including sanitary supplies, packaging solutions, and foodservice disposables, that are improving the quality of life at schools, hospitals, offices, and other institutions. Based in Glenview, Ill., Envoy Solutions is the parent company of North American Corporation, WAXIE Sanitary Supply, Southeastern Paper Group, Daycon, North Woods, PJP, Johnston, Next-Gen, Swish White River, Valley Janitor Supply Company, Weiss Bros., General Chemical & Supply, Bio-Shine, ATRA, and NVISION. For more information, please visit www.envoysolutions.com. About Sigma Supply of North America: Sigma Supply of North America, founded in 1970, provides world-class packaging solutions with personalized service across the U.S., including to Fortune 100 and 500 customers. The company's speed, expertise, and flexibility have helped its customers grow for more than 50 years. Based in Hot Springs, Arkansas, Sigma Supply has more than two dozen locations throughout the country, from Nevadato Maryland. For more information, please visit www.sigmasupply.com. SOURCE Envoy Solutions SIGMA SUPPLY OF NORTH AMERICA
CONTACT: SCOTT HAMBY (501) 760-4406 EXT. 3109 SHAMBY@SIGMASUPPLY.COM FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE SIGMA SUPPLY ACQUIRES MUNRO & COMPANY DISTRIBUTION CENTER Hot Springs, AR (January 26, 2022) – Sigma Supply of North America, a nationally-based distributor of packaging supplies and equipment headquartered in Hot Springs, Arkansas, announced that they have acquired the distribution center of Munro & Company, Inc., who specialize in women’s footwear. The purchase of the center, based in Hot Springs and located at 3770 Malvern Road, is comprised of approximately 29 acres and two primary buildings totaling over 136,00 square feet and will benefit both Sigma Supply and Munro. Sigma Supply had negotiated to lease a portion of the main building earlier in 2021. This move led to advancements in the relationship that initiated the purchase of the property. Sigma’s current plans are to continue the use of their previously-leased section of the main facility for their own distribution needs, allowing Munro & Company to continue their operations with no additional adjustments. The fields located on the south side of the property, currently being utilized by the non-profit organization Hot Springs Soccer Association, will also be able to continue serving the community with no changes scheduled for the near term. “It is an honor and a privilege to have the opportunity to purchase such an iconic building,” said Scott Hamby, on behalf of the family. Scott and Banks Hamby started their careers with Lake Catherine/Munro & Company, providing them with packaging items for over 30 years. While Sigma Supply is not planning on changing much within the interior functions, they are investing a lot of capital into the exterior. Scott Hamby has announced that there will be improvements to the structure to restore the building to its former glory in the coming months. Additional acquisitions from Sigma Supply in 2021 included Sabine Packaging, located in Orange, Texas. As of today, Sigma Supply of North America operates 18 facilities around the United States. However, their corporate base of operations is still Hot Springs, Arkansas. “Sigma is so glad to be able to expand into Garland County. With this addition, we will be able to move inventory from Northwest Arkansas and create more jobs in our community,” added Scott Hamby. Email marketing@sigmasupply.com to learn more about this acquisition. ###  New venture FiberPro to bring nearly 70 new jobs to Hot Springs
HOT SPRINGS, Ark. (March 26, 2021) – FiberPro, a leader in state-of-the-art design and next-generation technology manufacturing of custom log and lumber equipment, today announced that it is expanding its manufacturing facility in Hot Springs, investing more than $3.1 million and creating 69 new jobs over three years. “FiberPro’s commitment to individualized solutions for each of our clients has led to outstanding growth for the company,” said FiberPro founder and CEO Josh Krauss. “We are excited to continue the momentum through this expansion, which will benefit both FiberPro and the state by bringing additional manufacturing jobs and opportunities to Hot Springs.” Founded in 2019, FiberPro utilizes 3D technology to engineer innovative machinery for sawmills, engineered wood products plants, pulp and paper plants, and biomass energy plants. The company currently employs several product and design engineers and design fabrication consultants across North America. The expansion will allow the company to continue manufacturing woodyard and sawmill equipment while adding a team of forestry product experts focused on consulting, planning, engineering, and manufacturing. FiberPro has stated that one of its goals is to bring as many of these high-paying and skilled positions to Hot Springs as possible. Governor Asa Hutchinson, Congressman Bruce Westerman, Secretary of Commerce Mike Preston, Garland County Judge Darryl Mahoney, and Hot Springs Mayor Pat McCabe joined FiberPro executives for the announcement. “FiberPro’s decision to expand in the Natural State is good news for Arkansas,” Gov. Hutchinson said. “At its facility in Hot Springs, FiberPro manufactures log buckers, log cranes, and other equipment that help keep the timber industry in Arkansas and around the nation healthy. We are fortunate that a quality company such as FiberPro recognizes the quality of our industry and our workforce.” “The technology and economic impact by FiberPro’s investment is an exciting opportunity for Hot Springs,” Congressman Westerman said. “The timber industry is a vital resource for the United States and the lifeblood of Arkansas. Hot Springs is an incredible choice to host cutting-edge research, development, and manufacturing.” “With 19 million acres of forestland covering more than half the acreage in the state, Arkansas’ timber industry is attracting more and more timber companies,” Secretary Preston said. “Our thriving timber industry throws the door wide open for companies like FiberPro to offer custom solutions to help these companies succeed.” FiberPro serves several top-tier clients, including some of the most renowned lumber producers in the U.S. and Canada. From design to production to installation, FiberPro’s proficient team of engineers, manufacturers, and forestry experts provides innovative solutions to meet the unique equipment needs of each of its customers. The company expects to complete this expansion by summer 2021. “We are excited about the new opportunities that FiberPro will offer to our community, with the cutting-edge technology they bring forward in sawmill and forest product handling equipment,” Judge Mahoney said. “We welcome their investment in Garland County and look forward to the skilled high paying jobs they will bring to the area over the coming Years. The timber industry thrives in our region and FiberPro could not be more a fitting company to locate a facility in our area.” “Hot Springs is thrilled that FiberPro is expanding its manufacturing and bringing more high-paying and skilled jobs to our area,” said Mayor McCabe. “With the timber industry being so prevalent in our region, FiberPro’s new investment is suited well for success and we are excited to see this company’s continued growth. This FiberPro announcement joins a list of other current and upcoming economic expansions and developments that, along with our vibrant downtown and centennial celebration for our Hot Springs National Park, makes it an exciting time for our community.” FiberPro intends to fill several positions in operations to support its continued growth. Those interested in employment opportunities at FiberPro can visit www.fiberprollc.com for more information. ###  The Hot Springs Metro Partnership, Hot Springs Area Community Foundation and Cooperative Christian Ministries and Clinic were recognized by the Southern Economic Development Council for their community responsiveness during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“These annual awards recognize and showcase the leading communication and marketing work done by economic development professionals throughout the south. Hot Springs Metro Partnership hit the mark this year with this communication piece. Its entry in the Thinking Outside the Box category titled, Support Spa City, won a Special Judges Award for COVID-19 Community Responsiveness. This piece not only showed creativity, but also solid messaging and effectiveness at reaching their target audience. We were wowed by all the entries we received this year and were impressed with the high level of marketing work being done in economic development by SEDC members,” said SEDC president, Gene Stinson, after the ceremony. SEDC is a group that spans 17 southern states. The award was presented virtually during the SEDC’s annual conference on Monday, Aug. 17th for community responsiveness during the COVID-19 pandemic. It was one of only four awards given out during the conference, and the only one awarded for COVID-19 responsiveness. “We appreciate the partnership we had with CCMC and the Hot Springs Area Community Foundation in providing this program for our local businesses and displaced workers during the scariest part of COVID, the early onset when there were virtually no facts out there and our business owners and furloughed workers had no idea what to expect from one day to the next,” said Gary Troutman, President & CEO of the HSMP. “This money kept some in business and provided meals to families during some of their most challenging times.” “Major kudos to Cole McCaskill for the inspiration to create SupportSpaCity.com and to Mara Kuhn for building it out with an assist from Cole and Lisa Engebretson. They are very valued members of our team here at the Hot Springs Metro Partnership and Chamber. The site wound up generating $81,000+ in commerce to 98 local businesses and over 300 displaced workers at a time they needed it most,” he said. “It is a tremendous honor for Hot Springs and Garland County to be recognized on a national level from SEDC. We will continue to do our best to help businesses and workers as we all navigate the unchartered waters of the COVID virus,” Troutman said. #SupportSpaCity was a campaign for a buy-one, give-one community relief program. The initiative was designed to quickly get cash in the hands of local small businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic and to give grocery relief to those individuals who experienced a loss or reduction of employment due to the health crisis. Judges for the SEDC Communication Awards competition are economic development consultants, communication, and design professionals from across the southern United States who work with clients in developing strategies for growth in their communities. SEDC chose these judges because of their knowledge of the economic development process, the development of marketing content, and graphic design. They understand the needs businesses have in choosing a site and how communities and economic development organizations can reach prospective clients through their marketing efforts. The mission of the Hot Springs Metro Partnership is to create economic opportunity throughout the Hot Springs Region. (Hot Springs, AR) July 27, 2020 – The Hot Springs Metro Partnership held its annual meeting and economic development awards virtually this year. The event, sponsored by CHI St. Vincent Hot Springs, can be viewed here.
The HSMP holds its annual meeting and awards ceremony every year to thank its investors and inform them of the progress the Partnership made the previous year. The event honors those who worked tirelessly throughout the previous year to help provide Hot Springs and Garland County with an outstanding economic climate by bringing in more jobs and investment in the community. “What a difference both our deserving winners and worthy nominees made to drive both Hot Springs and Garland County forward in the past year and a half!” said Gary Troutman, President & CEO of the HSMP. “Though we had to hold the event virtually, that in no way diminishes the many outstanding achievements and accomplishments of our nominees,” stressed Troutman. The winners are: Hot Springs Economic Force Award Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort was awarded the Economic Force Award. This award is presented to a vital company in the Hot Springs Metro region. Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort is a fixture in the local economy. Oaklawn made the single largest investment of the year in 2019 and is creating more jobs at one time than any other single entity. When Oaklawn undertook a $100 million expansion of its casino and the construction of a new 4-star hotel and conference center, it heightened Hot Springs’ position in the national conversation and directly and indirectly spurred millions more in investment and new business activity in the community. Those also nominated were Radius Aerospace, US Vanadium, Cobalt Aero Services and Ritter Communications. Economic Development Leadership Award Vince Signorelli was awarded the Economic Development Leadership Award. This award is presented to an individual who has shown strong leadership in economic development efforts. Signorelli is an outstanding champion for the community. In 2019, his company continued to bring national attention to Hot Springs by hosting the US National Indoor Pickleball Championships at the Hot Springs Convention Center. His companies Tanners Team Sports and Vulcan Pickleball continue to innovate new products and lead the market in worldwide baseball, pickleball, and other sporting goods sales. He was also recognized in 2019 as he and his company received the Governor’s Award for Excellence in Global Trade. Signorelli has also stepped up to serve on the board of directors for the HSMP and has donated his time and resources to help advance our efforts. Those also nominated were Forrest Spicher, Diane LaFollette, Lesley Nalley and Majestic Ballpark Committee. Downtown Trailblazer of the Year Crystal Ridge Distillery was awarded the Downtown Trailblazer Award. This award is presented to an entity who made a significant investment in downtown Hot Springs. Crystal Ridge is an exciting new business in Hot Springs. They renovated a vacant warehouse building on Broadway and breathed new life into the building and this area of town by opening a craft moonshine distillery, restaurant, bar, and retail store. When the coronavirus struck, they used their distilling resources to pivot into the manufacture of hand sanitizer which has become a Hot Springs staple. Those also nominated were Splash Wine Bar, The Waters Hotel Rooftop and Hotel Hale. Historic Preservation Champion Hotel Hale was named the Historic Preservation Champion. This award is presented to an entity that has shown great care for the preservation of a historic structure. Already winning the statewide award for Excellence in Preservation, Hotel Hale took a bathhouse in Hot Springs National Park that had been vacant for decades and transformed it into a beautiful new hotel and restaurant. This new addition to downtown has added much needed high-end hotel rooms and a wonderful new dining option to the Hot Springs experience. Those also nominated were Capone’s Loft, Crystal Ridge Distillery and McGrew Companies. Trending Upwards Award Radius Aerospace was awarded the Trending Upwards Award. The award is given to an entity that made a sizeable investment and created new jobs in the community. Radius Aerospace was the Metro Partnership’s single largest manufacturing expansion project of the year. This company announced a $24 million new investment in Hot Springs coupled with the creation of 65 new jobs. With their origins headquartered in the heart of Hot Springs since 1966, and with locations in 4 other states and the U.K., they are on the leading edge of their industry, building a new titanium forming facility which is the future material for aircraft parts. Chairman’s Award Hill & Cox Corporation was presented with the Chairman’s Award. This is a special recognition selected by the Chairman of the Board to recognize someone who has made a positive impact on the community but may not fit into one of our other categories. Hill & Cox helps to build the community and impacts the skyline more than any other. In 2019 this locally-owned company built projects valued at over $57 million including construction on new buildings for National Park College, Hot Springs School District and CHI St. Vincent Hot Springs. They contracted with over 600 skilled workers on these projects injecting millions back into the local economy through payroll, the purchasing of materials, and having out of town contractors patronize local hotels, restaurants and other businesses. The mission of the Hot Springs Metro Partnership is to create economic opportunity throughout the Hot Springs Region. For further information, contact Mara Kuhn at 501.321.1700 or mara.kuhn@growinghotsprings.com - 30 -  Workforce development is a main initiative of the Hot Springs Metro Partnership (HSMP), and the organization knows developing a strong workforce happens from the ground up. The HSMP is working closely with the Greater Hot Springs Chamber of Commerce, seven area school districts, and National Park College to help prepare a ready workforce. Providing children with as many resources as possible to prepare them for a successful professional life after graduating high school is one of the ways the HSMP is serving the Greater Hot Springs area. The Workforce Committee of the HSMP was pleased to see part of this concept come to life this year with Garland County’s first-ever student to earn a concurrent high school diploma and Associate’s Degree. Mountain Pine High School’s Micah Travis is not only a 2020 Mountain Pine graduate, but also a 2020 National Park College graduate. The 17-year-old worked hard beginning in his sophomore year to earn his Associate’s Degree in Criminal Justice while he was still in high school. When asked if he felt he missed out on being a “typical high schooler,” Travis said there might have been a few things he missed, but his gains far outweighed them. “I might have missed out on one or two social gatherings with friends, but that doesn’t matter because in the end, academics are going to put you further than your friends.” Travis will begin the University of Arkansas at Fort Smith in the fall as a sophomore in college, and is on track to graduate with a Bachelor’s Degree at the age of 19. With dreams of being able to help people, Travis hopes to work as an Arkansas State Trooper and is thrilled at the prospect of being able to start as soon as possible. “Being a trooper means I’ll be able to help people, which is probably the biggest reason I decided to do this,” he said. Travis was inspired by his grandfather, a retired Texas State Trooper. His grandfather’s stories of assisting those in need and his own desires to do the same make him sure becoming a state trooper will be a good fit. “I just really enjoy making someone’s day better,” he said. The recent graduate said he wants to return to the Hot Springs area following his time at UAFS. “I want to be stationed at Troop K, the Arkansas State Police unit that covers this area, because I’ve grown up here most of my life and it’s an area I know really well,” he said. “That is a big part of being a state trooper, you have to know the area where you are assigned.” Travis said his school counselors approached him at the end of his ninth-grade year and asked him if he would like to go to college during his high school career. “By then, I already knew about vo-tech, and I thought it would be something along those lines,” he said. He soon discovered that he would, in fact, be taking college classes which would help him settle into college after his high school graduation. “I thought, ‘Well, I’ll give it a shot and see how it goes,’” he said, adding that he found he preferred his college classes over his high school classes. While taking college classes at NPC, Travis received concurrent credit making the classes also count for his high school requirements. He had the same amount of classes, they were just more demanding. “It did come with some challenges,” his mother, Leslie Travis, said. “He had to learn how to communicate with professors, which is very different than just running by the high school classroom. His communication skills have improved a great deal.”  Travis said as he began taking concurrent credit, he had other classmates from Mountain Pine join him which helped him adjust to taking classes with college-age classmates. But as those students graduated or stopped participating in the program, he became one of the youngest in his classes.
“At first it was intimidating because I was a lot shorter than I am now, and everyone was a lot taller and older,” he said. He jokingly added, “And in most cases more mature than me…with one or two exceptions.” He said one intimidating experience he had was in his speech class where he had to present and speak to a group of 20- and 30-year-olds. “I was just this rinky-dink 15-year-old who had no idea what he was doing,” he said. His mother added that she recalled a few times in his government class where students were required to be at least 18 years old to participate, but added that there were only a few times when his age was an issue. “National Park was wonderful to work with,” his mother said. “All of his professors realized what position he was in.” Travis echoed his mother’s thoughts. “I think they took into account my age, but they also gave me work that was the same as they would give any other student,” he said. He added that several professors gave him a little more grace because they knew he was in a unique situation. His father, Pat Travis, said he and his wife were amazed at the hard work Travis put in. “We’re both proud of what he did that last year, because that’s a load—20-30 college hours for a 16- and 17-year-old,” he said. “This last year was just wonderful. We’re proud of him.” In addition to taking a full college load at NPC, at Mountain Pine Travis was also the school mascot, and was involved in Beta Club and Student Council. His mother said he was still able to stay involved at Mountain Pine just like he had been before he started at NPC. In order to complete his Associate’s Degree, Travis had to take one summer class at NPC and two online classes through Arkansas Tech University, which he was able to complete in Mountain Pine High School’s computer lab during school hours. His father said he really appreciates the fact that NPC coordinates with UAFS for an easy transition to his junior year this fall. Travis noted the educational professionals at both Mountain Pine and NPC were extremely encouraging and helpful during the entire program. “Ms. Tammy Brown at Mountain Pine really helped me stay on track. She made sure I didn’t stop doing it,” he said, adding that she reiterated that he could go far by achieving this goal. His mother added that Ms. Brown made sure he had everything needed for college. Travis said she was very encouraging and helped him believe he could do it. “We are very proud of Micah as well,” said Brown, who was Travis’ college and career coach. “From a very young age, he has been a very determined and successful academic student. Having a great support system within his family has allowed him to dream big and accomplish the many goals he had set for himself. Micah's work ethic has led him to this achievement of attaining his Associate's Degree through such sacrifices as attending college classes during the summer over the last couple of years, while also working, instead of lounging at the lake or partaking in other teenage summer activities. It is this work ethic that will allow Micah to be successful in his career in law enforcement.” When asked if he had any advice for other students interested in pursuing this option, Travis said to simply “do it.” “If you think you can, if you have even just the slightest ability to do it, go ahead and try,” he said. “The worst thing that can happen is you don’t like it. The best thing that can happen is you get several free college hours and you’re able to complete half your basics.”  Hot Springs, Arkansas – National Park College (NPC) hosted a ribbon cutting ceremony Thursday, Jan. 30th for the newly constructed Marine Technology building.
The College broke ground on the facility in April 2019. The 7,500 square foot metal structure is 60 feet deep and 125 feet in length with four 25 x 60 foot bays. The interior space includes a large shop area, a classroom, office and storage space with room to expand. Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Wade Derden shared that NPC’s Marine Technology program is the only one of its kind in the state and one of only a handful in the region. He praised instructor Delmar Hunter for his efforts to strengthen the program. The program receives a tremendous level of support from industry partners that includes more than $160,000 of in-kind contributions and paths for our students to receive industry certifications with Yamaha, Mercury, BRP, and Suzuki through online training. Local business and industry has also committed significant resources to the program, including boat and engine donations, and service on the program’s advisory committee, which directs the curriculum of the program. “Local industry leaders like Trader Bills, Ouachita Marine, Bradford Marine, Brooks Marine, Orr Marine, Futrell Marine, Elite Marine, and Mountain Harbor Resorts have committed themselves to the success of this program and helped open up lines of communication to manufacturers. They’ve also helped recruit students, served as expert speakers for our students in their capacity as master technicians and owners, and they have worked with us to develop a robust internship program to help our students integrate into the workplace,” said Derden. Derden added, “With this facility we dedicate today, we can truly expand the program’s enrollment and better equip our students for a healthy future career. We hope to double the size of this program and add relevant curriculum in the coming years with your continued support.” He announced that NPC would begin hosting Suzuki Factory training in March. Rick Kesterson, president of Futrell Marine talked about the importance of quality training for the marine industry. “It is a workforce issue and I am glad that it’s at the forefront here at National Park. It’s safe to say that a technical workforce shortage is probably the biggest challenge facing our industry today. During almost every meeting or conference I attend, this discussion is always at the forefront. Finding and retaining great technical help in our industry is not easy. A workforce issue quickly turns into a customer service issue.” Kesterson added, “It’s all about providing our customers with great experiences. All roads lead to us all coming together collectively to get trained qualified personnel out into the marketplace.” Bill Barnes, president of Mountain Harbor Resort and Spa and the Tri-Penant Family of Resorts said in his 50 years in the marina business there has never been an adequate number of technicians to support the need. “Arkansas has 600,000 acres of lakes and 10,000 miles of rivers and streams. There’s 16,000 registered boats just in a five county area right here, and that doesn’t count all of the stuff that gets trailered in. There is a tremendous need.” He explained how the nature of the work has elevated over the years, “With every graduating class here, you fill a huge void with quality, quality people that are embarking on a wonderful career path. When I was a kid growing up, it was a motor mechanic. These young men and women are technicians. They are absolutely technicians. You look at these engines, and the size and the sophistication, and frankly the cost. They are technicians. They are high quality people charged with keeping an expensive, very elaborate piece of equipment running.” NPC President, Dr. John Hogan shared the impact the new facility would have on students. “We think about the impact what we are teaching will have on those students, on their families, on their grandchildren and on the generations of our residents. These are the building blocks of our community, and we wake up every day thinking about our students, how we can listen to them, and what we can do to give them an advantage.” He also noted the economic impact the program has on both the tourism and manufacturing sectors. “Students are going to benefit from this program. Generations are going to benefit from this program, so it’s worth the risk. It’s worth the investment and that’s what we want to continue to do.” #### National Park College was established in 1973 and is located in Hot Springs, Arkansas. The College enrolls over 7,500 credit and non-credit students per year. NPC is a comprehensive two-year institution offering associate degrees and certificates as well as continuing education, community services and workforce training.  1. What is your position with Berry Global? How do you serve the company?
My title is Tooling Manager but I also serve as the Manager of the Processing Department. In this role I serve as a technical and plastics resource for the company. It is my responsibility to convert raw plastic pellets into good and usable plastic components. 2. What are Berry Global’s products? Berry Global has 290 locations on six different continents. In those locations Berry produces plastic products for the food and food service sectors as well as the healthcare, filtration, beauty/personal care, agricultural, building/construction and industrial /transportation sectors. I have heard that when you walk in a grocery store, 25% of the products on the shelf have Berry Global content in some way. 3. What does it mean to work for a company that makes products shipped all over the world? I love the fact that we ship products all over the world. I take great pride in the fact that we are a global supplier. Every time I hear someone say that America can’t compete in the global manufacturing market, I proudly let them know that we do it every day right here in Arkansas. 4. What advice would you give someone trying to choose a career? “Find something you love and you will never work a day in your life” may be good advice, but the reality is that you have to be able to make a living in your chosen profession. One strategy would be to talk to people you admire and respect who are in the workforce about options and what they think the future of their industry looks like. The more information you can collect, the better the decision you can make. 5. What is your biggest employment need? Skilled employees. If it is a job that you can train anyone to do, then you can probably train a robot to do it, and eventually this is the way United States manufacturing will go. This will reduce the need for unskilled laborers but increase the need for people with the knowledge and skills to maintain these systems. 6. Who are you looking for to work at Berry Global? At a facility like Berry Global we have positions for just about anybody. If you have a work ethic and are able and willing to learn, we have a place for you at Berry Global. 7. Where are you originally from? A little town in Southwest Missouri named El Dorado Springs. 8. What path led you to Berry Global? After graduating from high school, I served in the Army for four years, which gave me the discipline and financial means to go to college where I earned a four-year degree in manufacturing. At that time I had no intention or desire to go into plastics manufacturing, but in my first job making automotive water pumps and fuel pumps, I was introduced to the world of plastics and it has been a wonderful career for me ever since. 9. What are your hobbies? I enjoy all of the outdoor activities that are offered to us in Arkansas, and since I’ve moved to Hot Springs I am finding that I really enjoy horse racing. 10. What is your favorite thing about Hot Springs? I love Hot Springs, and to me the best thing about Hot Springs is that we get to enjoy some of the culture normally associated with a city but you still get that small town feel. The Hot Springs Metro Partnership Reaccredited by the International Economic Development Council1/16/2020
 The International Economic Development Council (IEDC) announces that the Hot Springs Metro Partnership has once again been recognized as one of 66 economic development organizations accredited by IEDC as an Accredited Economic Development Organization (AEDO). It is also the only AEDO within the state of Arkansas. Originally accredited 2016, the HSMP was reaccredited by IEDC following three successful years of activity as an AEDO member.
“The Hot Springs Metro Partnership displays the professionalism, commitment, and technical expertise that is deserving of this honor,” said IEDC President and CEO Jeff Finkle. “We are extremely honored to be recognized by IEDC and proud to be the only accredited economic development organization in the state of Arkansas, as well as one of only 66 in the entire county. This is a testament to the wonderful teamwork we have locally between the leadership at the City of Hot Springs, Garland County, and our investor partners, as well as our hard-working and conscientious staff here at the Hot Springs Metro Partnership,” said Gary Troutman, HSMP President and CEO. The AEDO program is a comprehensive peer review process that measures economic development organizations against commonly held standards in the profession. The program consists of two phases: a documentation review and an onsite visit. Each phase is designed to evaluate information about the structure, organization, funding, program, and staff of the candidate economic development organization. “Additionally we appreciate all of our community and business leaders who helped in the recent three-day site visit by IEDC, and we pledge to them our commitment to tackle the ongoing workforce challenge to help in providing more jobs, more viable candidates, and more opportunities for our community going forward,” Troutman said. “We will also continue to look for retention and growth opportunities for current businesses located here while simultaneously working to recruit new ones to start up, relocate, or add an additional location in Hot Springs and/or Garland County.” Earning the AEDO accreditation tells the community and prospects that the HSMP attained a measure of excellence assuring that their trust is well placed and their business is in good hands. Maintenance of the AEDO status is required every three years and is accomplished through documentation submission and/or onsite visits by a team of the AEDO subcommittee. The International Economic Development Council is the largest membership association serving economic and community development professionals in the world. With over 5,000 members nationwide and abroad, IEDC offers the economic development profession one source for information and professional development, one voice for the profession and one force for advocacy. For more information on IEDC or the AEDO program, please contact AEDO Program Manager Dana Crater at 910-833-7020 or dcrater@iedconline.org, or visit IEDC’s website at http://www.iedconline.org/AEDO. The goal of the HSMP is to create economic opportunity throughout the Hot Springs Region. For further information about the HSMP, contact Mara Kuhn at 501.321.1700 or mara.kuhn@growinghotsprings.com. - 30 - |
