STOCKMEIER Urethanes USA recently welcomed students and faculty from the West Virginia University John Chambers College of Business & Economics MBA program and the FH-Münster University of Applied Sciences in Germany for an immersive look at the company's operations, innovation, and career opportunities. The visit was coordinated by Jennifer Burkart, lecturer at the FH-Münster, in partnership with West Virginia University.
The visit began with a welcome from Melissa Martinkat, Chief Operations Officer, followed by an introduction to STOCKMEIER Urethanes USA and its global presence from Chris Martinkat, President & CEO.
Participants then toured the Clarksburg manufacturing facility, where Jeremy Elliott, Director of Operations, and Hunter Craig, Quality Assurance Technician, led the production tours. Students also observed a product demonstration with polyurethane foams and adhesives conducted by Bryan R. Morris, Senior R&D Chemist. The experience gave students a unique opportunity to see classroom concepts applied in a real-world manufacturing environment.
Following the tour, students participated in an interactive panel discussion hosted by Vanessa Thorn, Strategic Initiatives Manager. Panelists included:
- Crystal Rakosky, Human Resources Manager
- Preston Fox, Inside Sales Representative
- Nastausha Snuffer, Manager, Marketing & Communications – Americas & Global Branding
- Lorenzo Garcia, Environmental Health and Safety Manager
The discussion covered a wide range of topics, including career paths, company culture, global business, sustainability, marketing, manufacturing, and the collaboration required across departments to deliver value to customers.
After the panel, students and employees continued conversations over refreshments, providing additional opportunities for networking and questions.
Following the visit, Logan Mayhew, Career Development Coordinator and Adjunct Professor at the John Chambers College of Business & Economics, shared:
"Thank you so much for your time speaking to our students from the WVU MBA program and the Münster School of Business. We had a wonderful time, and the hospitality you and your team showed was top-notch!"
Dr. James G. Field, Associate Professor of Management at West Virginia University, also expressed his appreciation:
"The visit was an outstanding experience and provided our students with a valuable opportunity to learn more about STOCKMEIER Urethanes, its operations, and the important work taking place at the Clarksburg facility. The facility tour, lab demonstration, and panel discussion were all engaging and informative."
He added:
"Experiences like this allow students to connect what they are learning in the classroom with real-world business practices while also expanding their professional networks and gaining exposure to potential career opportunities."
Jennifer Burkart, lecturer for Business English and Intercultural Communication, at the Münster School of Business also reflected on the broader impact of the visit and STOCKMEIER Urethanes USA's commitment to the communities it serves.
"The visit was an incredible learning experience, giving students the opportunity to engage with a company that is committed not only to global manufacturing excellence but also to making a meaningful impact on its local community. From supporting organizations that address food insecurity to mentoring students and creating educational opportunities, STOCKMEIER Urethanes' commitment extends far beyond its business. I'm grateful that students from WVU's MBA program and the Münster School of Business had the opportunity to see firsthand how global industry and community engagement can go hand in hand."
STOCKMEIER Urethanes USA is proud to support the next generation of business leaders by opening its doors to students and providing opportunities to experience manufacturing, innovation, and collaboration firsthand. The company looks forward to continuing its relationship with West Virginia University, the FH-Münster University of Applied Sciences, through future educational partnerships.