“Driving Innovation in Composites with Precision, Passion, and Purpose.”
Terry P. VanHyfte is an award-winning composites industry leader whose career has been defined by innovation, operational excellence, and strategic transformation across thermoset and thermoplastic manufacturing. With a legacy of engineering leadership that spans more than three decades, Terry has left a profound impact on sectors ranging from aerospace and automotive to marine and industrial applications. Known for pioneering novel materials and processes, he has elevated underperforming operations into industry-leading benchmarks, all while building high-functioning teams and advancing sustainable, high-performance solutions.
A native of the Midwest with a foundational education in Plastics Engineering, Mechanical Engineering Technology, and an MBA from Franklin University, Terry’s academic journey reinforced his lifelong curiosity and commitment to technical precision. These early influences laid the groundwork for a hands-on leadership style rooted in data-driven decision-making, operational integrity, and relentless innovation. From the start of his career, he exhibited a unique ability to merge technical complexity with scalable business impact.
While driving technical advancements at Ashland Specialty Chemical in the late 1990s and early 2000s, Terry also demonstrated his entrepreneurial acumen. From 1999 to 2003, he purchased, developed, and operated a web-based marketplace for collectibles called WeaveWare.com. Originally launched as an MBA project, the venture evolved into a full-fledged business under Terry’s leadership as President. With a small team of programmers and marketing professionals, he balanced this growing enterprise alongside his corporate responsibilities, ultimately selling the company in 2003. This dual-track experience sharpened his business insight and broadened his perspective on digital innovation, customer engagement, and team-building beyond the manufacturing floor.
At Ashland, Terry led the development and commercialization of resin, LPA, and SMC technologies—bringing next-generation materials to demanding automotive OEMs and supporting molding operations across North America, Europe, and Asia. His leadership in launching resin plants and introducing class A and low-density technologies positioned Ashland as a trusted global supplier, while also building enduring international relationships that seeded long-term market expansion.
He rose through roles of increasing responsibility—from Automotive Development Manager to International Technical Service Representative—developing expertise in global product launches, quality systems, and cross-border joint ventures.
In the early 2000s, Terry took the reins as Technical Director and later General Manager at Interplastic Corporation’s Molding Products Division. He oversaw R&D, customer service, sales, and P&L accountability while generating substantial efficiency gains that returned the business to profitability. He improved formula success rates, shortened time-to-market, and directed the development of over 500 composite formulations for construction, transportation, and marine sectors.
From 2013 to 2015, Terry served as Director of Operations for Magna Exteriors—Continental Structural Plastics, where he led a remarkable turnaround of an underperforming plant. Within one year, he reduced scrap from 1200 to zero parts per million, implemented world-class manufacturing standards, absorbed volume from a Mexican facility without expanding shifts, and doubled monthly revenue through formula optimization. His leadership also resulted in one of the highest employee satisfaction scores in the organization.
In 2016, Terry assumed his current role as Director of Process and Technology at Channell Commercial Corporation, where he spearheaded the development of a next-generation, robotically automated SMC compounding and molding operation. This clean-sheet design integrates lean principles and advanced manufacturing techniques, showcasing his vision for future-proofed, sustainable production environments. Terry oversees all operational functions—from EHS and purchasing to accounting and workforce development—driving year-over-year cost savings exceeding 10% of revenue.
Throughout his career, Terry has earned multiple accolades, including patents for low-pressure SMC molding and ultrasonic sealing technologies. His work on jet ski hulls using nano-technology garnered international attention, including a co-winning entry at the prestigious JEC Awards. He has also presented technical papers at global conferences, solidifying his reputation as both a practitioner and thought leader in the composites space.
What sets Terry apart is his ability to lead with humility while challenging the status quo. He is a strategic builder who thrives in ambiguity, guiding organizations through complex transitions and aligning technology with business strategy. His work is informed by a strong ethical compass, operational discipline, and a genuine belief in the power of people to drive continuous improvement.
Today, Terry VanHyfte remains an influential voice in advanced manufacturing and materials science, continually seeking ways to reduce waste, boost quality, and empower teams. Whether developing a new SMC formulation, mentoring a plant leadership team, or reflecting on his entrepreneurial journey, he demonstrates an unwavering commitment to innovation with impact.
Character:
Terry is deeply grounded in integrity and resilience, consistently leading teams through challenging operational transitions with trust and transparency. His values-centered leadership builds lasting relationships and inspires confidence across all levels of the organization.
Knowledge:
With over 30 years of experience in thermoset and thermoplastic innovation, Terry possesses an encyclopedic knowledge of composite materials, processes, and business operations. He blends scientific rigor with practical know-how to deliver transformative results in complex environments.
Strategic:
Terry excels at identifying long-term opportunities and aligning operational tactics with overarching business goals. His strategic planning has turned around underperforming divisions and launched pioneering technologies that reshape industry standards.
Communication:
An articulate presenter and effective cross-functional leader, Terry conveys complex ideas in accessible ways, ensuring alignment among engineers, executives, and frontline staff alike. He is known for clear, consistent messaging that empowers teams and drives change.
