Since joining Thogus in 1997, Matthew Hlavin, has been the driving force in Thogus' growth over the last thirteen years. Hlavin was named President of the Avon Lake, Ohio manufacturer in early 2009 after mastering roles such as sales representative and vice president of sales and marketing. Leading the 60+ employee custom plastic injection molder, Hlavin promotes innovation within Thogus as well as outside the walls by developing critical partnerships with suppliers and customers. Hlavin strategically positioned Thogus as a boutique manufacturer in 1997 when the injection molder took a daring move to fire its automotive clients, creating opportunities to expand production in other markets. Hlavin and his team took this time to identify other prospects, technologies and partnerships with resin manufacturers. Throughout the next twelve years, Hlavin is credited with implementing metal replacement solutions, rapid prototyping services and adding biomedical engineering and design capabilities. Hlavin is no stranger to manufacturing since he is the grandson of one of the founders, Jack Thompson who formed Thogus with Walter Gus. Thogus, comprised of "Thompson + Gus" began in 1950 as Master Mold & Die and changed its name in 1958 when Thogus Products molded its first tube and hose fittings. In 2010, Hlavin took on the two-year role of president for the plastic industry's leading organization, MAPP (Manufacturers Association for Plastic Processors). Additionally, Hlavin established three new divisions for Thogus, 1) Radiation Protection Technologies, incorporated in 2009, creates radiation shielding components, thus replacing harmful lead products, 2) rapid prototype + manufacturing (rp+m), incorporated in 2010, a resource for timely prototypes and production-ready parts without the need for tooling and 3) Hlavin created a specific engineering division with both biomedical and industrial designers to further assist customers. About TEDx, x=independently organized event In the spirit of ideas worth spreading, TEDx is a program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. At a TEDx event, TEDTalks video and live speakers combine to spark deep discussion and connection in a small group. These local, self-organized events are branded TEDx, where x=independently organized TED event. The TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but individual TEDx events are self-organized.* (*Subject to certain rules and regulations)

4. Farm Your Talent

5. Work Life Balance (Culture)

9. New Mfg. Model

10. Change the Rules! www.thogus.com