As an engineering student, Raymond P. Hartzell identified early that plastic materials held fascinating prospects for automotive and other industry manufacturers who were working to resolve functional and environmental product challenges. Raymond Hartzell Hartzell, the Lead Center Engineering Manager for Freudenberg-NOK Sealing Technologies’ Findlay, Ohio facility, has since turned his interest into a successful career working with thermoplastics. In recognition of this success, Hartzell was recently named a 2016 Rising Star in the plastics industry by Crain’s Plastics News magazine. He joins other talented Freudenberg-NOK employees who have earned industry recognition for their contributions to manufacturing and the company’s success. Hartzell, 35, oversees product and process development including current production support, new product launches, future projects and research and development for the Findlay location. In being chosen as a Rising Stars in 2016 by Plastics News, he exemplifies the talent and dedication needed to resolve industry issues and develop breakthrough material, product and process solutions in the plastics industry. “We are delighted Ray was recognized as a Rising Star in the industry,” said Roy Schroeder, Lead Center Manager, Fluid Power Automotive in Findlay. “Ray is an invaluable member of the Findlay team, and he continues to successfully take on more challenges and projects for the Lead Center and company. Ray is a great example of the kind of extraordinary people we have on our company team.” Hartzell joined Freudenberg-NOK in 2006 as a process engineer. He has taken on positions of increasing responsibility since that time. During his career, he has been instrumental in assisting the company in expanding its use of thermoplastics through improved research and development activities and testing. He has also led team efforts to develop new plastics solutions for customers in important programs like the 8/9/10 speed transmission programs. In addition to a bachelor’s degree in Industrial Engineering from the University of Toledo, Hartzell also holds a Master of Business Administration degree from Indiana Wesleyan University.