Our People
Eric Balent
Project Manager - HWI Business Systems
HWI has a really good mix of senior specialists and new talent, and there is a lot of interest in transferring that knowledge. There are a lot of dedicated people at HWI passing that knowledge along to new employees.
I began my career 18 years ago as an entry-level QA Tech with only a basic understanding of refractories, but it didn’t take long for refractory manufacturing to become part of who I am. Throughout my career, I have been surrounded by exceptional people—led and mentored by some of the most talented individuals. The passion for what we do, how we do it, and the products we create is unmistakable. I am grateful for the opportunity to grow within this organization and look forward with excitement to what the next 18 years will bring.
James Mazanec
Plant Manager, Windham
Nate Warren
ERP Business Process Manager
HWI is a place where careers grow alongside people. Through meaningful challenges, diverse opportunities, and collaboration across teams and locations, employees are supported to learn, lead, and make a real impact—while building relationships that make the work truly rewarding.
I started as an intern at HWI. I loved working for the company so much that when I heard about the FIRE program I jumped at the chance to be in it. The FIRE program allowed me to go on plant tours at many of our plants, sit in on trainings for many different skills and work in departments I never thought I would. It has given me experiences both in my work life and personal life that I never thought I would have.
Samantha Garnier
Research Engineer, II
At HWI the sky is the limit. There is a tremendous amount of movement in all sectors of business. You have to prove yourself and execute, but the possibilities are endless. Joining HWI I saw opportunities for growth and stability.
Jason Adkins
Plant Manager, South Point Plant
Maegan Hatala
Marketing Communications Manager, Americas
I truly enjoy working at HWI and being part of a global team that is collaborative, supportive, and driven by excellence. The work is rewarding, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to learn, grow, and contribute alongside colleagues from around the world.
I love the collaborative spirt here at HWI! I've had incredible opportunities to learn and develop new skills to accelerate my career path, thanks to the leaders who truly invest in our development. HWI is a place where I can constantly grow my career as part of a powerful team, not just have a job.
Rod Taylor
Plant Manager, White Cloud
Steven Sternberger
Senior Director, Marketing
If you are considering a career at HWI, get on the bus. We have committed people across all our functions that work together for our customers. There is an upbeat culture with a very diverse mix of people from different generations that bring energy and knowledge together. It’s an exciting place to work.
HWI has always had excellent products and technology and a strong reputation in the industry. The current technologies and the facilities are forward thinking. HWI has a good mixture of people and talent. The company has a strong, bright future.
Mark Zikesh
Value-Added Services, AMS-Burns Harbor