Michelman recently announced that it has added two new associates to its Fibers & Composites business segment to better anticipate and serve its customers’ needs in the reinforced plastic composites market. James Chantler, Ph.D., joins Michelman as global technology director for Fibers & Composites. A glass fiber industry veteran, Chantler has held several positions, including business manager, global research manager, and material development engineer for PPG Industries, Reichhold, and GAF. He most recently served as research and development director for Nippon Electric Glass (NEG-US). His industry knowledge and technical expertise will reportedly allow Michelman to broaden its fiber sizing and surface technology portfolio, help the composite industry achieve increased performance, and accelerate the adoption of new and novel concepts.

Lauren Hickey joins Michelman as global marketing manager for Fibers & Composites. She has spent over 20 years in senior marketing positions such as business manager, senior global marketing manager, and global director of marketing and product management for companies such as Invacare Corp., PolyOne, and  Americhem Inc. She will use her experience in plastics and polymer material product portfolio management to direct Michelman’s efforts with reinforced plastic composites.