Refractories Manufacturer Looks Overseas for Growth
05/16/2016 - Pittsburgh, Pa.-based refractory maker HarbisonWalker International has taken a few more steps to reorganize itself following its exit from asbestos-related bankruptcy, hiring a new chief technical officer, revealing its intent to expand overseas and unveiling a rebranding effort.
“Much like the commitment that Pittsburgh has made to position itself for a new generation, we have been recommitting to our people, products, and processes to ensure a vibrant future for our employees, customers and the industry,” said HarbisonWalker chairman and chief executive Steve Delo in a statement.
The U.S.-based company announced its latest moves Monday during AISTech 2016, which is being held this week in Pittsburgh. Among the moves was the hiring of Martha Collins as chief technical officer, who joined the company effective Monday.
Collins has 26 years of experience in the oil, chemical and gases industries, and she most recently served as the technology director for global innovation at oilfield services provider Halliburton.
She holds 13 U.S. patents and has helped to commercialize more than 30 products in a variety of markets. Collins holds a doctorate from the University of California-Davis.
“Her expertise, impressive track record of leading innovation, passion and great attitude all embody what the HWI brand represents: ‘Intensity at Work’ that benefits our employees, customers and the industry,” said Delo.
Also, the company said it would look to expand overseas.
Senior vice president and general manager Carol Jackson declined to say whether the company has any deals in the works. But she said it sees the potential for growth abroad, particularly in Europe.
“Our sights are set high in terms of global growth,” she said.
Harbison also is rolling out its new brand as HarbisonWalker International, which consolidates the identities of its family of companies: ANH Refractories Co., A.P. Green Refractories Co., North American Refractories Co. and Harbison-Walker Refractories Co.
Jackson said the company’s 19 manufacturing facilities will be incorporating the new branding over the next few months.
The U.S.-based company announced its latest moves Monday during AISTech 2016, which is being held this week in Pittsburgh. Among the moves was the hiring of Martha Collins as chief technical officer, who joined the company effective Monday.
Collins has 26 years of experience in the oil, chemical and gases industries, and she most recently served as the technology director for global innovation at oilfield services provider Halliburton.
She holds 13 U.S. patents and has helped to commercialize more than 30 products in a variety of markets. Collins holds a doctorate from the University of California-Davis.
“Her expertise, impressive track record of leading innovation, passion and great attitude all embody what the HWI brand represents: ‘Intensity at Work’ that benefits our employees, customers and the industry,” said Delo.
Also, the company said it would look to expand overseas.
Senior vice president and general manager Carol Jackson declined to say whether the company has any deals in the works. But she said it sees the potential for growth abroad, particularly in Europe.
“Our sights are set high in terms of global growth,” she said.
Harbison also is rolling out its new brand as HarbisonWalker International, which consolidates the identities of its family of companies: ANH Refractories Co., A.P. Green Refractories Co., North American Refractories Co. and Harbison-Walker Refractories Co.
Jackson said the company’s 19 manufacturing facilities will be incorporating the new branding over the next few months.
