Forty years after the first tire rolled off the line in 1970, Michelin’s Ardmore, Okla. plant is celebrating its 40th anniversary by honoring past and present employees and their families.
“Over the past 40 years, cars and tires have changed dramatically, but the support, energy and professionalism of our employees remains unmatched,” says manager Dave Brenner.
“Not only are we celebrating an important milestone, but we are also looking ahead to a bright future,” he adds.
The factory has undergone considerable growth; it now encompasses 1.5 million square feet while employing more than 1,700 people – the most of any Michelin manufacturing facility in the U.S.
Built in 1969 by the Uniroyal Goodrich Tire Co., the operation was on the verge of shuttering after 20 years until Michelin acquired Uniroyal/Goodrich in 1990. Five years later, a tornado destroyed the plant, but the facility was fully operational in just two months after Michelin’s $45 million rebuilding investment. Overall, the has invested more than $400 million into Ardmore since the purchase.
“Ardmore has been very good for Michelin,” says Brenner. “And, we like to think that Michelin is good for Ardmore as well. We’re actively engaged in the community from recycling to 4H, to environmental camps and much more. Ardmore is our home and we’re committed to giving back to the community that has been wonderfully supportive of us.”
For more information, visit www.michelin-us.com.
