NATIONAL COMPOSITES - Key Persons
Aaron started with MPI, which is now a part of the National Composites family, back in 2001 as a Quality Manager/Engineer.
Today Aaron is the Engineering Manager and programs our Fanuc Robot with an H2O cutting head, and our 5 axis CNC. With the use of our Faro Arm, I validate products, tools, models, and laser scan parts for use in reverse engineering with a strong understanding of GD&T and measurement techniques. I design fixtures and review parts and assemblies with the use of Solid Works to support the build of tools and fixtures to ensure the end tooling is being built to our customer's specifications.
As he moves his way around the organization, he is consistently amazed by everyone's commitment to becoming the best in the business.
When asked how "Small plant focus, Big Company Resources," plays into his day he summed it up with, for me it means that we have to meet customer expectations and support those through the life of the project.
From age 5 to today, 52, Aaron still plays organized hockey. Unlike most that fill their fishing tackle-box with purchased lures, he makes his own. I guess you could say that when Aaron makes a commitment, it's anything but halfhearted.
Rick Grise born in a small town in Indiana. However his father worked on refineries all over the world and Rick landed in 9 different schools by the eighth grade. He met up with many different cultures which helped to shape his ability to work with people from all different backgrounds. Like most boys his age, Rick dreamed of playing for the Notre Dame Fighting Irish when he grew up. The comradery, the personal interaction and being part of a team is what drew Rick to the dream. Of course, fame and glory were appealing as well! Although Rick was accepted and attended Notre Dame University he never did play for the Irish. He did nonetheless learned to become an important part of a team.
Rick owned and sold a successful company to a fortune 5 hundred company prior to coming to Able manufacturing in 2001 as VP of Sales. "I was informed ABLE had recently lost two of their largest customers and it was that challenge that enticed me to join the ABLE Team. Within seven years we had grown the company 8 times its original sales" Rick then quickly worked his way up to COO of the organization. "We had to re-adjust our focus, develop new processes, and advance our technology in order to better compete in the marketplace". Over the next 7 years, after several process improvements, the business improved. In fact the company had grown 8 times its original sales from when Rick started with Able. "It wasn't easy, but we knew we had a good dedicated workers to build with" Rick left ABLE in 2008 only to return in 2015 as President and CEO and began a new success story bring more innovation and relations with customers like Kawasaki, Case New Holland, Caterpillar, John Deere and many existing loyal patrons.
The success and growth of Able Manufacturing caught the attention of Adam Fenton, president of National Composites in Michigan. National purchased Able in 2021 and with that acquisition, the services of Rick and his team. "Rick blew me away with his leadership style and capabilities. We knew right away that Rick was an important person to help us lead our own growth plan." Rick added, "I think it's a good match. National Composites has an aggressive yet managed growth strategy that fit my business philosophy. It's a great match for us both, I believe".
Rick recently accepted the position of Chief Revenue Officer at National Composites and is primarily now working from the Troy, MI headquarters. "Yea, it's quite the commute!" Rick joking states. "Although I am not in the Joplin (MO) plant much anymore, I am still part of that team. I am still working with the team there but now I am with our other five locations as well. I'm still part of the team, but the team just got bigger".
Rick noted how enthusiastically National Composites was received when they acquired Able. "National came in and offered support to Able that allowed the team at Able to focus on growth and profitability. The advanced engineering, the stability and the security allowed Able to focus more on what they do best, creating a fantastic product for our clients." The staff noticed the changes too. "National made some internal improvements almost immediately that improved the work place conditions. Everyone noticed and appreciated it. There was still a period of adjustment during the transition but everyone adapted. Change can be hard but National Composites did their best to make it easy."
Rick's other team is the Notre Dame Fighting Irish. As a 1985 graduate of the university, Rick still makes it back for football Saturdays and never misses an opportunity to catch the game on TV. "Play Like A Champion Today" Rick says, "It applies to any kind of team you are on to football field or the plant floor".
Until recently my title as COO hadn't changed since 2019, today I am the CEO. While my focus has broadened in order to meet the demands of our growing market share, my passion for maintaining our Small Plant Focus, Big Company Resources has never varied. Initially, my primary focus was on growing our fair market share within the marine vertical.
Brandon is currently at Great Lakes Composite, yet, prior to joining the National Family, he had over 18-years of composite industry experience. His stint with the National Composites family has now spanned over 5-years. He was initially attracted to join the National family because of his interest in the marine/boating industry. Through that experience, he found he continued to expand his knowledge about the industry through the vast array of molding techniques and processes National Composites provided the marketplace.
Through Brandon's desire for continued self-improvement and wanting to help others, he has held positions as a production coordinator and now as the Operations Manager. When asked what he likes best about working at National, his response was: "It's like we are all a big family, all for one, and one for all."
As his part, Brandon believes that extending the family attitude in dealing with customers is the best way that he can support the Small Plant Focus, Big Company Resources promise.
When not at work, you can most often find Brandon enjoying the outdoors. He has a passion for fishing and hunting on his 13 acres of land.
Job Titles:
- Director of Operations
- Plant Manager
Brooke has been a part of the organization for quite some time. She has worn many hats and has excelled and grown with the company since day-1 of her employment.
She first started in an HR role and has since either managed or filled nearly every administration position. In her current role with National Composites, she believes that Small plant focus, big company resources begin by treating every internal staff member with the utmost respect and providing guidance and encouragement in achieving career goals. She believes that excellent communication is the key to gaining and maintaining the trust and loyalty of all that the company serves for the customer base.
Brooke takes great pride in being a part of a team that maintains the best facility possible. This includes a safe, clean, and up-to-date facility and equipment, which provides team members to focus on the production and delivery of quality parts, on time, and on budget.
As the organization continues along with its growth, Brooke looks forward to assisting others in achieving success. She believes that anything is possible in business when one remains focused on quality, acts with integrity, and treats everyone equally.
When Brooke is not at her work-acholic position at National, she takes on the family event planner role. Whether it's a quick trip to park on a Saturday morning, a "staycation," or a weekend family adventure, she does it with passion.
Cara joined the team at Great Lakes Composites with an extensive human resources background in higher education, trucking, and heal… Meet Cara Petoskey
Cara joined the team at Great Lakes Composites with an extensive human resources background in higher education, trucking, and healthcare. Cara is enthusiastic about her continuing education. She earned her bachelor's degree from Saginaw Valley State University and her MBA from Central Michigan.
Cara is a people person and quickly adapts to her surroundings. At Great Lakes, she is certainly considered a people person and really enjoys getting to know her co-workers.
When she isn't at work or when her head isn't buried in a book, you will find Cara trying new breweries with friends, hosting game nights, or traveling. However, Cara's real love resides with two pooches known as Pal and Larry, her beloved Golden Retrievers!
Chad Darnell is the current CFO of National Composites, a company in the composite materials industry. He joined the company in 2023 and this is his first position with the company. Chad has a degree from the University of Michigan and enjoys spending time with his family and friends, particularly watching his kids play sports, travelling and playing cards. He has been married to his wife Amy for 20 years and they have an 18 year old daughter Lindsey and a 16 year old son Luke. Chad is also a pet lover and has 2 dogs and 4 cats.
In his current role as CFO, Chad enjoys the limitless opportunities to make changes and grow with the company. He is excited to join National Composites and confident that he can add to an already great management team.
Job Titles:
- Chief Technology Officer
- Distinguished Member of Our National Composites Management
Dennis Vorse is a distinguished member of our National Composites Management team, bringing with him a rich history of expertise an…
Dennis Vorse is a distinguished member of our National Composites Management team, bringing with him a rich history of expertise and innovation in the composites industry. With a career spanning over 16 years in coatings and adhesive product development and implementation, and more than 30 years in composites manufacturing, Dennis's contributions to the field are substantial and ongoing. His journey with composites began with significant stints at two leading manufacturers, where he honed his skills in thermoset fiberglass and lightweight thermoset carbon fiber. His role at National Composites is centered on providing expert materials and process support across all our entities. This involves leveraging his vast experience to drive innovation, efficiency, and continuous improvement in our operations.
What sets Dennis apart is his passion for the dynamic nature of the composites industry. He thrives on the daily challenges and opportunities that come with the territory, always looking for innovative ways to approach the diverse products, processes, and market needs. His belief that no two products or processes are the same fuels his constant pursuit of excellence and innovation.
Away from the professional arena, Dennis is a family man, married for over four decades to Susan, a human resources expert in the electronics sector. They share a son, Alan, who has carved his own path in life, currently residing in Ozark, MO. The family's love for animals is evident in their pets, Cooper and Lottie, who bring joy and companionship to their home. Dennis also has a deep appreciation for community involvement, often seen enjoying local dinner theatres with family and friends, supporting local arts and culture. His interests extend to cars, firearms, and nature, where he finds tranquility and relaxation. Known for his introverted yet helpful nature, Dennis is a problem-solver at heart, both in his personal life and professional career. His approach to life and work is marked by a quiet determination to make a positive impact, often in ways that go unnoticed but are deeply felt.
As a valued member of National Composites, Dennis continues to demonstrate his commitment to excellence, innovation, and teamwork. His ongoing contributions are a testament to his enduring passion and expertise in the composites field.
Job Titles:
- Director of Operations
- Purchasing Manager
With over 43 years of experience in the composite industry, there is very little that Diane hasn't seen or done. And, while others with that level of experience may have the attitude of "I know it all," Diane is just the opposite. One of the things that have kept her in this industry all these years is her passion for learning new processes that increase efficiencies and improve customer satisfaction.
As Director of Operations, Diane truly enjoys working with the Production and Floor Manager, defining what, how, and when for each job. Then once determined, she is the "go-between" with the customer and the Great Lakes family of professionals. And, while she enjoys being the key contact, there is rarely a day she doesn't find time to walk the plant and revel in the creativity of what is being produced on the floor.
When asked about how her role impacts the National Composites Small Plant Focus, Big Company Resources, she states: "We build up to a quality, not down to a price."
In her personal life, Diane has a passion for yard work. She feels that the best way to respect her neighbors and the community she lives in is to maintain that yard to the highest quality.
On August 1st, 2021, Gary began his role as Controller of Able Composites LLC. He had similar duties but reported directly to the Corporate Controller, whereas I reported to the President in the past. Today there is a little more deferment of responsibilities with a Corporate structure.
Gary is the type of professional willing to roll up his shirt sleeves and do what it takes to get the job done. When the opportunity arose, he assisted with inventory and supply management. While enjoying this challenge and the insight into something beyond accounting, he realized that he was still an accountant at the end of the day.
Job Titles:
- Chief Manufacturing Officer
When Jason was first hired in 2018, his title was Engineering Manager for National Composites. Through his hard work and dedication to excellence, today has earned the title of Chief Manufacturing Officer, overseeing all of Nationals production floors.
Jason has always appreciated National Composites because the friendly "get to know you" attitude permeates the entire organization.
Jason works each day; treating customers like partners is the best way to support the Small Plant Focus, Big Company Resources National brand promise.
While he is conservative by nature and would tell you that there's not too much special about him, others may disagree. Why, because it takes an extraordinary person to, with his wife, provides foster care for 11 years and fostered 45 kids in that time. Ultimately, adopting their son, who has developmental disabilities. Jason's comment about this achievement: While it has been challenging, it's also an incredibly rewarding period of our lives.
Job Titles:
- Technical Director: Engineering and Quality
Jessica started her career at Able in 1999 after completing an engineering degree. Her never-ending level of energy and passion for quality and product development is what allowed her to achieve her current responsibilities.
When asked how she was doing, her quick-witted response was: "I'm going crazy, but I love it!" Followed up with how can you be going crazy and love it: "With National Composites taking over, we've been awarded even more new business - it's great, it's never boring, and I personally enjoy being crazy busy."
As Jessica puts it, providing the technical support necessary for our Able team to do great things is my way of supporting National Composites Small Plant Focus, Big Company Resources. Through that support, we are able to achieve and often exceed the quality demands of the marketplace.
Thriving on staying "crazy-busy" doesn't end at work for Jessica. She has two sons who keep her on her toes with sports and activities, she has a passion for gardening and anything outdoors. She typically ends her busy days at the gym for a bit of stress relief by doing CrossFit.
Johnny has been at Sunrise since 2008 and started as a production worker in lamination. Today, he has learned and mastered nearly every step of the composite process
What he likes best about his workday is that every day is different, and if something needs to be figured out, the team works together to figure things out.
Johnny has the reputation of being a "Jack-of-all-trades, and truly enjoys helping others. He's the type of guy that regardless of what needs to be done, or what questions need to be answered, he'll stop what he's doing to help others. If he doesn't know the answer, he'll quietly disappear and then he's back with the solution, or, answer.
In supporting the brand promise of Small Plant Focus, Big Company Resources Johnny is committed to growth and does all that he can to ensure that those around him have access to the training and knowledge needed to achieve their career goals.
Job Titles:
- Manufacturing Operations Manager
Larry McReynolds is a seasoned professional in the composites industry, with over three decades of experience at Able Manufacturing. He first joined the company in 1989 as an operator/production worker and has since held various positions such as material handler, warehouse team leader, warehouse manager, and now operations manager. Larry worked at Able from 1989 until 2001 and returned to the team in 2019. Throughout his career, Larry has been passionate about helping his employees succeed and has fostered a team-oriented work culture at Able. He firmly believes that a company's success is built on its people, and he has worked tirelessly to create an environment where his team members can grow and thrive.
Larry's educational background includes two years of study at Franklin Technical, where he honed his technical skills and gained valuable industry insights. He has always been a lifelong learner and has continued to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and advancements in his field.
When he's not at work, Larry enjoys spending time with his family, including his wife and five grown children. He has a special bond with his granddaughter, who he considers his best friend. Larry also has a deep appreciation for animals and has four dogs, two pet pigs, and a flock of chickens at his lake house. His hobbies include golfing and watching baseball, and he has played organized baseball in Joplin and traveled on competitive softball teams until the age of 45.
Larry McReynolds is a dedicated professional who has made significant contributions to the composites industry. His passion for helping his team members succeed and his commitment to fostering a collaborative work environment have been instrumental in the success of Able Manufacturing.
One of the things that Lisa enjoys most about her job is the camaraderie found among the Molded Plastics co-worker family. Some have 20, 30, and 40 years of experience level that are always willing to lend a hand and enlighten others through their knowledge of the composite industry.
As a part of Lisa's role, she often walks the floor of the plant floor and is astounded by the team's dedication to quality and the beauty of the end results delivered to the customer base.
As the Quality Manager, she is in communication with the customer throughout each step of the process. She feels that excellent communication is often a key to a project's success, starting from the very beginning all the way to receiving post-project delivery customer feedback.
Mary Soules brings a fresh and experienced perspective to her role as Controller at National Composites. Though new to the composites industry, Mary's 34-year career in finance, including roles as Controller and Director of Finance in automotive injection molding, is a testament to her expertise. A CPA by qualification, she earned her accounting degree from Michigan State University and an MBA from Wayne State University.
Intrigued by the tangible outcomes of manufacturing, Mary aims to make a positive impact at National Composites through her financial acumen and team spirit. Her commitment to excellence is driven by her passion for creating products that matter.
A proud supporter of Michigan State University and the Detroit Tigers, Mary's life is deeply rooted in family and friendships. Married to Steve, a dedicated physical therapist, she is a mother of two: Jake, a Purdue graduate and auto sales consultant, and a daughter who's aspiring to join MSU. Her close-knit circle, including her mother, brother, and a group of dear friends known as ‘The Girls', play a significant role in her life.
Mary's life is sprinkled with humor and unique experiences, like her accidental foray into acting during a trip to Los Angeles. At Universal Studios, she was part of a spacewalk demonstration, and at Knotts Berry Farm, she briefly joined a show, adding a touch of Hollywood to her life story.
In Mary Soules, National Composites has found not just a Controller, but a vibrant personality who blends professional rigor with a zest for life, making her a valuable asset to the team.
Job Titles:
- Director of Product Development & Infrastructure
Michael recently joined Molded Plastics Industries(MPI) under the National Composites brand in January 2022. No stranger to composite manufacturing, and have spent the past 25yrs in various technical, engineering, and management roles covering a wide array of products processes manufactured for the Defense, Aerospace, Wind, Mass Transit, Oil & Gas, Heavy Truck, and Agricultural Industries.
Michael finds that his focus on legacy and new product lines is extremely satisfying. In addition, his goal of advancing technological processes and equipment in a planned multi-phase facility expansion helps drive the vision of the National Composites brand. He couldn't be more excited for the future of MPI and all those directly/indirectly associated.
As a complete foreigner to both Michigan and MPI, Michael was surprised by the welcoming from employees and their willingness and eagerness to embrace upcoming changes. There have been significant and tangible improvements immediately following the National's acquisition that has continued through to my arrival at MPI. Every day there are incremental steps toward the National's vision of MPI, and though sometimes interrupting the normal process, one can visibly see the improvements to morale throughout the facility.
Job Titles:
- Director of Operations
- Plant Manager
- Director of Operations at Molded Plastics Inc
Michael Metzger is the Director of Operations at Molded Plastics Inc., having joined the company in February 2023. Starting as a Production Manager, his leadership and expertise led to a quick promotion. Michael attended St. Clair Co. Community College, where he gained a solid basis for his career.
As the Director of Operations, Michael enjoys working with exceptional team leaders in the fast-paced environment. Outside of work, he is a devoted family man, married with six children. His hobbies include fishing, classic cars, and music. Michael's blend of professional success and personal interests showcases his well-rounded character, making him an invaluable asset to Molded Plastics Inc.
Rick Grise born in a small town in Indiana. However his father worked on refineries all over the world and Rick landed in 9 diffe…
While Robert is one of the newest members of the key-management team, he's anything but new to the composite industry. He brings nearly 20 years of value engineering along with a track record of gaining and maintaining client relationships.
Roy Murdock joined the National Composites in 2020 at our Able Manufacturing branch. With nearly 40 years of purchasing management experience, Roy leads a department that is vital to the National Composite success and growth strategy. In his role with National Composites, Roy's duties include studying the market to identify price trends and future availability of materials and goods; locating vendors; negotiating prices; preparing requisitions and purchase orders; and maintaining purchase records.
Roy has enjoyed his time with National Composites and cites, "Being part of an incredible team, working for exceptional leaders, and experiencing the tremendous growth that we are undertaking." as his favorite part of the position.
A graduate of Metropolitan State University, Roy is a Minnesota native. However, over the years, his career has taken Roy from Minnesota to Tennessee to Missouri, where he now resides with his daughter Brittney and grandson, Sebastian. Roy also has a daughter, Khendra, who resides in Springfield MO wither her husband and son, Vincent. Roy is widowed but has two lovely feline companions to keep him on his toes.
Job Titles:
- Operations Manager
- Plant Manager
Stephen Aschenbrenner brings over 30 years of engineering expertise to the automotive industry, with a career spanning from injection molded automotive material handling to Class A applications. His notable roles include managing RIM and injection molding facilities in Farmington Hills and a significant period in manufacturing engineering. Stephen's leadership was further exemplified during his four years directing the engineering department at Thomson Plastics.
Seeking new challenges, Stephen transitioned to the composites industry, drawn by its innovative potential. At National Composites, he aims to apply his extensive OEM experience to drive change and enhance processes. He appreciates the constant learning and decision-making opportunities in the dynamic auto industry. A Lincoln Technical Institute graduate of 1984, Stephen also enjoys the camaraderie of sports, supporting the Wolverines and the Lions.
Outside the office, Stephen's passion for cars is evident in his history of building and racing a 1972 Mach 1. He enjoys spending time at racetracks, golfing, and fishing with his father. His talents extend to 3D modeling, having designed various automation systems and fishing gear. A fun fact about Stephen is his past role as a sound engineer for local rock bands, occasionally performing on stage. Family-oriented, he maintains close ties with his parents, brother, and sisters, balancing his professional achievements with personal commitments.
Job Titles:
- Production Manager
- Production Manager at Great Lakes Composite
- Production Manager at Great Lakes Composite, Joined the Company in 2022 After a 25 - Year Career in the a
Terry Tunnacliff, a skilled Production Manager at Great Lakes Composite, joined the company in 2022 after a 25-year career in the automotive industry. A Baker College graduate, Terry is passionate about helping his team succeed and fostering a positive work environment.
In his free time, Terry enjoys rustic woodworking and chainsaw carving. As a proud father of three, he takes pride in his children's accomplishments, such as his youngest son's thriving fishing lure business. With his extensive experience and commitment to excellence, Terry is an invaluable asset to the Great Lakes Composite team.
Job Titles:
- Corporate Purchasing Manager
Theresa is a seasoned veteran of the National Composites and Sunrise teams. Theresa originally worked for Sunrise Fiberglass from 2013-2017 as the Materials Manager. In the spring of 2017, her entrepreneurial spirit came calling and she left Sunrise to open an aquaponics greenhouse. Theresa enjoyed her life in hydro-botany but when National Composites acquired Sunrise in 2020, she could not resist the new team and company vision and returned to her old stomping grounds while still maintaining the greenhouse business. She accepted the position of National Composites Corporate Purchasing Manager in September of 2021 and has been excelling in that position ever since.
Working in an industry that is heavily reliant on the supply chain can be challenging for anyone. Theresa not only embraces the challenge, she enjoys it. Each day presents a new challenge and she appreciates the opportunity to solve problems for the company related to the acquisition of raw materials.
Theresa has never walked away from her greenhouse passion. Her favorite hobbies are gardening, spending time with family, traveling, antiquing, walking, movies and of course, working in the greenhouse. Theresa is married, has two children and is the youngest of six children. With many nieces, nephews and family pets, she is a member of a very large yet close family. And she wouldn't have it any other way.