The Society of Plastics Engineers' Thermoforming Division named Paul Alongi its 2006 Thermoformer of the Year, presenting him with the award during the group's annual conference, held Sept. 16-20 in Nashville.
Alongi is chief executive officer and director of cut-sheet thermoforming equipment firm Maac Machinery Corp. of Carol Stream, Ill. Alongi said it was an honor to be placed among the ranks of such talented individuals.
``I've built a lot of excellent machines,'' he said in his acceptance speech. ``And every now and then, a great one.''
One official said there are many people successful in thermoforming today because of Alongi.
Alongi honed his skills as a transmission specialist during 15 years with Power Transmission Engineering Co., his first job out of college. It was through that company that Alongi was introduced to thermoforming.
Alongi created Maac in 1982. In 1996, he added Comet Industries Inc. and in 1998, he purchased Central Automated Machinery Inc. Three of his sons and his brother now are involved with the business.