Machinery leader Robert Schad received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Canadian Plastics Industry Association at a Toronto luncheon following its annual general meeting May 5.
Schad founded Husky Injection Molding Systems Inc. in 1953 and turned it into a machinery and mold powerhouse. In the early days PET molding was the firm's signature technology, but it has since broadened into more markets and into hybrid-technology injection presses. CPIA also pointed to Schad's keen personal interest in health and environment issues, often demonstrating holistic approaches to health and the environment in the company's organization.
In accepting the award, Schad joked he isn't ready to start taking up golf in his imminent retirement. He said he still has environmental connections including sitting on the National Round Table on the Environment and Economy appointed by Canadian Prime Minister Paul Martin
Schad told luncheon delegates that he will leave behind a cultural legacy that underlines Husky's success. He said highlights of Husky's culture were innovation, contributing to your customer's success rather than just selling something, embracing environmental issues and being uncompromisingly honest.
Schad tipped his hat to his soon-to-be replacement, John Galt, indicating he has been entrusting much of the firm's day-to-day operations to him. Galt is vice president of operations and chief operating officer. Schad did not hint when he would retire this year.
Other industry awards presented at the luncheon were the 2005 Leader of the Year Award and 2005 Canplast Award.
Anton Mudde won the first honor. The 33-year veteran of injection molding was recognized for his longtime leadership of custom molder Baytech Plastics Inc. of Midlland, Ontario, and for his service in industry organizations and in his local community.
Faris Shammas won the 2005 Canplast Award for distinguished service in CPIA and related plastics and industry organizations. He recently left CPIA after 26 years and joined the Ontario Government's Ministry of Economic Development and Trade as a senior adviser for the sector competitiveness branch. With CPIA, Shammas held positions as chief economist, vice president and Ontario director.