Matt Hlavin was named president of 62-year-old Thogus Products Co. in 2009 and has led the custom plastic injection molding company to new heights with an innovative hand and open mind. Hlavin introduced cutting-edge technology in 2009 by purchasing two Stratasys rapid prototyping machines and creating a rapid prototype and manufacturing (rp+m) division within Thogus.
Today, rp+m houses all Stratasys machines, the first Object 3D Printing machine and an Object Connex500 machine. The latter is the first to appear in a Northeast Ohio company that is available for public use. These innovations in technology have transformed Thogus from a stereotypical manufacturing facility into a technological hub for engineering solutions.
Hlavin’s attentiveness to customer needs led to the inception of Jalex Medical, a consulting division created in response to his customers’ need for design, quality and regulatory work that was not being met by the capabilities of Thogus and rp+m. Hlavin has employed both biomedical and industrial designers to further assist customers and expand Thogus’ services.
Hlavin’s leadership is evident in the immense satisfaction and dedication of Thogus’ employees, who are consistently encouraged to explore new ideas and spend time working as a team. Thogus offers a health and wellness program for employees and family members to attend training sessions five days a week at any time of day.
Hlavin also has college and high school students immersed in Thogus’ environment and gaining hands-on experience through Thogus internship programs. Between rp+m and Thogus, there are 10 students from various universities and high schools working and learning from the Thogus team.
Hlavin is dedicated to keeping Thogus at the forefront of the plastic injection molding industry and lives up to the company motto: “You think it, we can make it.” With a passion for finding innovative solutions, Hlavin hopes to continue to lead Thogus to new heights and new markets.
How to reach: Thogus Products Co., (440) 933-8850, @Thogus or www.thogus.com
