West Virginia Executive Summer 2024 | Page 89

Blenko

Location :
9 Bill Blenko Drive , Milton , WV 25541
Contact Information :
( 304 ) 743-9081 blenko . com
Staff :
David Wertz
Vice President of Manufacturing
Bryson Cutler
Vice President of Business Development
David Wertz Vice President of Manufacturing
David Wertz , a native of Hurricane , WV , is the vice president of manufacturing at Blenko Glass Company . His technological expertise and appreciation for tradition are what guide him in his role .
“ The best part of my job is taking cutting-edge technology , like custom app development , and blending that with our centuries-old traditions and processes ,” he says .
Wertz ’ s upbringing on a small farm instilled in him a work ethic and moral compass that he credits for his professional success . His father , a retired Air National Guard chief , and his mother , known for her hard work and talent , served as his role models .
His greatest success has been revitalizing Blenko . By shifting the business model from wholesale to retail and harnessing the power of the internet , he has ensured the company ’ s survival and growth . Blenko has also seen an overhaul of its daily operations .
“ We established an apprenticeship
program , the first of its kind at Blenko and in the state of West Virginia ,” he says .
His passion for his heritage and resilience , qualities rooted in his West Virginia upbringing , have been instrumental in his journey .
Wertz ’ s favorite quote , “ Make it so ,” by Jean-Luc Picard , encompasses his proactive and determined approach to life and work .
Bryson Cutler Vice President of Business Development
Bryson Cutler , vice president of business development at Blenko Glass Company , shares a similarly impressive journey . His extensive background in IT propelled him into the workforce .
What sets Cutler apart from his peers is his determination to deliver quality results , regardless of the time it takes . His diverse experience in business operations enables him to consult and execute on various projects effectively . Mentors like Joe Gibbs and Bruce Shew , along with his business partner , Wertz , have been significant influences in his career .
Cutler is particularly proud of his work at Blenko , where his efforts have been vital in revitalizing the historic glass manufacturer . The most important lesson he has learned is the value of good people in an organization .
“ Good or bad people will make or break your organization ,” he says .
Cutler ’ s favorite quote from Robert Frost , “ I took the one less traveled by , and that has made all the difference ,” reflects his approach to life and his career .
Wertz and Cutler exemplify leadership , innovation and a deep-rooted commitment to their heritage and community , driving the success of Blenko into the future . •
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