It is no surprise that MTMIC Board Members have a depth of experience in product production, especially due to our company name. All ten of our Board members own, have built, manage or are senior officers of Michigan manufacturing facilities. The 38 year history of the company is based on small, medium and large Michigan manufacturers. With this type of Board member, our sole goal is to support Michigan manufacturers with the lowest cost workers’ compensation coverage consistent with financial stability to pay future claims.

In the last few months I have asked Board Members for a profile. As successful as these 10 men and women are, they don’t care much about talking about themselves. But after enduring a little push back, the management team “won” recently when we profiled our newest Board Member, Karen Schluckebier from The Rogers Group in Clare.

Our second Board Member profile is Richard Smith, Owner of Wolverine Bronze Company in Roseville. While Dick would not say it, I will. He is an American success story – in business as well as personally. Dick began with Wolverine Bronze as a part timer in 1967. After serving in the Air Force from 1971-1975, he returned to Wolverine Bronze, this time full time. Wolverine Bronze has grown to now employ approximately 125 people. Two of which are his sons, Christopher and Robert. They went to work in the family business upon graduating from Central Michigan and Lake Superior State. We expect Dick’s three grandchildren (ages 6, 4 and 2) will be put to work in the family business in the not too distant future.

Dick’s commitment to MTMIC has been strong and lasting. His company has been a policyholder since July 1, 1992. Dick joined the Board of Directors in 1992. During his 16 years on the Board, he has served in all Board positions including Chairman.

Consistent with Dick’s style – he loves his work and has no plans to retire. From the management team perspective, this is good news for MTMIC and our Board. Finally, congratulations to Dick and Linda on celebrating their 40th anniversary.