Norm Wolske

Norm Wolske
Sherwin Williams (Retired)
Somerset County
https://https://www.sherwin-williams.com/

When Sherwin Williams was faced with closing either its Dessler plant, near its Ohio headquarters, or closing its Rubberset plant in Crisfield, Norm Wolske, working with Maryland’s economic development team, flew to Dressler for meetings. The outcome was a $5 million investment by Sherwin Williams to move it roller division to Crisfield where, today, more than 200 Sherwin Williams workers are employed.

 

“While managing the North American production and distribution of paint brushes and rollers I discovered the rewards of helping employees develop new skills, work in teams, set and achieve goals and advance in their careers,” says Norm. “Several plants were in small towns which highlighted the importance of manufacturing to the community, where pride of products well-made and a job well done are passed one generation to the next.

 

“Several mentors helped me develop as a leader and realize my goals. My proudest achievements have been the people I have mentored and who made our business strong, our products of the highest quality and our workplace an enjoyable and rewarding experience. Not all business decisions are easy; company acquisitions and plant consolidations are a necessary part of growth but can be disruptive to families and communities. Focusing on the people impacts of difficult decisions is critical to the success of any venture. I am humbled to have had the opportunity to make a positive impact in Maryland by encouraging the growth and success of manufacturing, and I am grateful to Sherwin Williams for the opportunities they afforded me.”