Pilot Chemical Company Launches New Technology and Innovation Initiative

Pilot Chemical Company said it is investing $5 million this year – and tens of millions of dollars over the next five years – in technology and innovation. A majority of the investment will create and support a state-of-the-art Innovation Center, as well as expand the company’s existing technological resources.

Patrick McCarthy, president of recently acquired Pilot Polymer Technologies, Inc. (formerly ATRP Solutions, Inc.), will oversee all technology and innovation initiatives in his new, additional role as VP  of Technology and Innovation.

“It is a fantastic time to work in chemical manufacturing,” said McCarthy. “And innovation is once again invigorating the industry. This considerable investment proves that Pilot is a leader in that movement.”

Other employees with new roles to support the initiative from the technology center in Cincinnati are: Rick Shook, formerly Corporate Technical Manager, who has been named Vice President of Research and Development; Bill Rohrer, formerly the Product Manager for the Pilot business line, who has been named Director of Technology; and Bob Golden, formerly Research Chemist, who has been named Research Fellow.

The Innovation Center will be an expansion of the Pilot Polymer Technologies laboratory facility in Pittsburgh, Pa., and will double the size of the current facility. Its focus will be on addressing customer needs and the development of new products. Pilot Chemical will add nine new roles to staff the facility, which will be operational by June 2018.

“This is an opportunity to reinforce our legacy and build on our success,” said Pamela Butcher, CEO and president of Pilot Chemical. “Pilot began through innovation with ice-cold sulfonation, and we continue to challenge ourselves by thoroughly focusing on the future and the changing needs of the marketplace.”