William Babik - Technical Sales Manager, Nabertherm USA

Will received his bachelor's of science degree from the University of Pittsburgh in materials science and engineering. He has eight years of experience in various industries and ceramic applications, including solid oxide fuel cell development, LTCCs on metal, and piezoelectric ceramic/process development with strong emphasis on process development and improvement.

Gary Childress - General Manager, Edward Orton Jr. Ceramic Foundation

Gary began his service as general manager with the Edward Orton Jr. Ceramic Foundation in September 2001. Prior to joining Orton, he served as vice president of the industrial minerals group of Hecla Mining Co., Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, from 1994 to 2001. Gary served as president of Kentucky-Tennessee Clay Co., a wholly owned subsidiary of Hecla Mining Co., from 1986 to 1994. Prior to joining Hecla, he held various engineering and marketing positions in the ceramics and minerals industries.

Gary graduated from Clemson University in 1969 with a bachelor's of science degree in ceramic engineering. He currently serves as a member of the external advisory board of the School of Materials Science and Engineering at Clemson University.

Jesse Hamilton - Director of Process Excellence, Dal-Tile International

Jesse graduated from Alfred University School of Ceramics with a bachelor's of science degree in ceramic engineering in 1978. Prior to joining Dal-Tile, he worked with Swindell Dressler Co. as a service engineer and TYK Refractories in technical sales. He joined Dal-Tile as a process engineer in Gettysburg, Pa., and has also served as plant manager in Gettysburg and Conroe, Texas.

In his current position, Jesse's duties involve all manufacturing plants in the U.S. and Mexico. He oversees natural gas usage, ISO certifications, and six sigma and lean projects, while also working with other Dal-Tile functions such as marketing and R&D, and helping with ISO certifications at sister company Unilin USA.

Jesse is a certified Master Blackbelt Six Sigma and an ISO Lead Auditor. 

James E. Houseman, Ph.D. - President, Harrop Industries, Inc.

Jim joined Harrop Industries in 1965 and was named the company's president in 1978. He served as president of the American Ceramic Society from 2000-2001. Jim earned his doctorate in ceramic engineering from The Ohio State University in 1970.

Ralph Ruark - President, Swindell Dressler International

Ralph is a registered professional engineer with degrees in ceramic engineering and business. Formerly president of Ruark Engineering, Inc., a company that provided analysis, recommendations and training for industrial ceramic manufacturers worldwide, he joined Swindell Dressler International in 2013.

Andrew Zamurs - Development Specialist, Rio Tinto Materials