In this cover story interview, Milind Laddha shares candid insights into building a process-driven rubber extrusion business, balancing cost with durability, scaling SMEs with discipline, and why customers ultimately don’t buy rubber products—they buy confidence.

Slated for February 16–18, the multi-day training covers the entire rubber manufacturing lifecycle, from materials and compound development through fabrication, automation, and product liability considerations. The finalized agenda reflects ARPM’s commitment to practical, forward-looking education that helps manufacturers connect technical decisions to operational and business outcomes.

Registration is open for AMAP’s 2026 March Educational Workshop at the Hilton Baton Rouge Capitol Center in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. This event offers an excellent opportunity to connect with fellow professionals and organizations in the industry while gaining valuable insights from educational sessions led by renowned industry experts.

Omya Performance Polymer Distribution has appointed Sara Ghione as President for Rubber Polymers and Additives, effective January 1. Based in Oftringen, Switzerland, and reporting to CEO Carsten Harms, Sara has over 20 years’ experience in the chemical distribution industry, most recently as Business Director for Polymers and Rubber EMEA for Brenntag.

H.B. Fuller Company reported mixed revenue results but stronger profitability for its fourth quarter and full fiscal year ended November 29, 2025, as pricing actions, cost controls and restructuring efforts helped offset softer demand and the impact of divestitures.

TAMEST (Texas Academy of Medicine, Engineering, Science and Technology) and Lyda Hill Philanthropies today announced the recipients of the 2026 Hill Prizes, which support high-risk, high-reward research with strong potential for real-world impact. Funded by Lyda Hill Philanthropies, the prizes provide seed funding to advance paradigm-shifting ideas and position Texas as a global leader in innovation.