When Campbell died in 1996, the remaining partners re- solved the company and Acuña became sole owner of the Oklahoma and Michigan plants. In 2001, Acuña grew his holdings to include ABC Coat- ing Company of Minnesota, Inc. and in 2003, ABC Coating Company of Illinois, Inc. was added. Over the years Acuña says the industry has become more technical and the specifications more intense. He says ABC’s clients are buying a product that needs to last and stand up, especially in the northern states against salt and de-icing mixes. The company works with transportation departments in several states and must adapt its own processes to meet local requirements. “Some inspectors have different pref- erences. Some inspect in-house before materials are shipped, some pre-approve materials, and some inspect each and every load and sheet number prior to shipping.” Acuña says his team meets regularly with state repre- sentatives to find out what their needs are, to discuss changes or concerns and upcoming project requirements. The CRSI announcement noted that throughout his ca- reer “Marcelo has provided his time and financial support to the CRSI epoxy plant certification program and ASTM meetings. He has continuously been a strong supporter of the programs of the Concrete Reinforcing Steel Institute (CRSI).” the Washington plant operational when he was just in his teens and the others came on at various times over the years. “I’m very proud to have my family involved and proud of them. They knew it would be hard work but they have all been committed to being part of the company and of doing the work that requires.” He says some of his grandchildren are now in college and he hopes some will choose to join the family business after graduation as well. “In this highly competitive industry of corrosion resist- ance, it is important we continue to improve our materials and our processes to stay competitive and to stay eco- nomical for our project partners. I am proud to have my family with me in this endeavor.” Epoxy-Coated Reinforcing Steel Follow us on COST-EFFECTIVE CORROSION PROTECTION EPOXY INTEREST GROUP Acuña has been involved over 40 years in many initia- tives to keep the industry advancing. Recently he has been involved with a group seeking alternative sources to fund infrastructure development and sits as a committee mem- ber for coating certifications. The CRSI award announcement further says: “Many members of his family are involved in the ongoing opera- tion of four plants started by Marcelo and his partners, and he has mentored them with a strong commitment to prod- uct quality. He has also mentored many others in the in- dustry.” Acuña’s sons Marcelo and David, his daughters Rose and Sylvie Rocha, his son in law Fred Rocha, and his grand- son Freddy Rocha are all involved in various locations and in a variety of capacities within the company from data entry to dispatch to plant management. He says his son-in-law David, the oldest, has been with the company for many years, beginning when Acuña worked in the concrete industry. Marcello Jr. helped get ® CONGRATULATIONS Marcelo Guadalupe Acuña The Recipient of the 2015 Epoxy Industry Service Award Learn More . . . wwww .epoxyinte erre estgrro oupp .org www.epoxyinterestgroup.org . . The Canadian Design and Construction Report — April-May 2015 – 43