Firestone Polymers CEO, President Retires

Bridgestone Americas’ Firestone Polymers (FSPC) division has announced the retirement of its CEO and president Bob Handlos. Handlos plans to retire at the end of 2016, and will be succeeded by Gene Lavengco, current executive director of manufacturing of FSPC, effective Oct. 1.

Lavengco has worked for FSPC for 36 years in numerous roles, including plant engineer, project manager, maintenance manager, plant manager and executive director of manufacturing. In his new role, Lavengco will be responsible for continuing the transformation of FSPC into a leader in high-tech polymer manufacturing for Bridgestone on a global basis.

“We express our sincere appreciation to Bob for his 32 years of service to Bridgestone Americas Tire Operations and FSPC. We wish him and his family a prosperous future,” said Yuji Mochizuki, vice president and officer internal manufacturing management at Bridgestone Corp. “Gene has the experience and expertise to successfully move the business forward. I’m confident that he will accomplish the transformation and make FSPC a true leader in the high-tech polymer industry.”

McCarthy Tire Service recently opened a new in-house commercial wheel refinishing facility. According to the company, the facility has the ability to refinish over 1,000 wheels per day and technicians will utilize equipment for inspection, surface preparation, pre-treatment, and automated coating techniques at the facility.

“We're thrilled to unveil this wheel refinishing facility,” John McCarthy Jr., president of McCarthy Tire Service said. “This investment reflects our dedication to providing our customers with unparalleled efficiency and a one-stop shop for all their commercial tire and wheel needs. By streamlining the refinishing process, we can help fleets minimize downtime and maximize productivity.”