Pinova named area's top manufacturer

Byline By MICHAEL HALL The Brunswick News 
 
Pinova was recognized Wednesday as the Technical College System of Georgia's Manufacturer of the Year for the seven-county area served by Altamaha Technical College.

Altamaha Tech, the Brunswick-Golden Isles Chamber of Commerce and the Brunswick and Glynn County Development Authority presented the Brunswick-based producer of specialty pine rosins with the award during a reception held in the company's honor at King and Prince Golf & Beach Resort on St. Simons Island.

Pat Grozier, vice president of Pinova, said the award was greatly appreciated.

"This community has been so supportive of Pinova and our new life. It feels great," he said.

The company went through tough times when it was Hercules during the recent recession, Grozier said.

Under new ownership and a new name, Pinova has emerged as a pillar in the community, he added.

Lorette Hoover, president of Altamaha Tech, said Pinova is a natural fit for the award.

Pinova has been a partner with the college since Altamaha Tech opened its Glynn County campus three years ago.

"As we invested in them, they invested back in us," Hoover said.

Pinova has become a major contributor in the community, said Woody Woodside, president of the Brunswick-Golden Isles Chamber of Commerce.

"They have not only bounced back in a profitable way under new management, but they are also adding new jobs, which are of great importance," he said.

The unique, highly technological aspects of Pinova's operation not only add diversity to the Glynn County marketplace, but they also offer steady good-paying jobs for more than 200 residents, Woodside said.

"They give tirelessly to the community and work well with us and the development authority. We love having them here," he said.

Altamaha Tech serves the counties of Appling, Camden, Glynn, Jeff Davis, Long, McIntosh and Wayne.