Mike Hochschwender’s Journey to Smithers
Shortly before graduating, Mike visited a Navy recruitment office to inquire about the Mammal Program. While waiting for information, he came across a pamphlet about the Navy SEAL program. It sparked a pivotal decision, and Mike set his sights on becoming a SEAL. He earned an ROTC scholarship to Tulane University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in biology and environmental science. Rising through the ranks, Mike eventually became a Navy SEAL Commander.
However, after years of service, Mike wanted to start a family but knew the demands of SEAL life made this difficult. In the 1980s, during a deployment in the Persian Gulf, Mike made a life-changing decision during a phone call with his father. He decided to leave the Navy and return to Akron to join his father’s business, Smithers Scientific Services, which would allow him to pursue fatherhood while helping the family business. The Navy granted him an extended leave with the option to return if things didn’t work out.
New Beginnings at Smithers
Between 1985 and 1990, the world saw significant political changes, including the end of the Cold War, the fall of the Berlin Wall, and the onset of the Gulf War. These global shifts coincided with changes at Smithers, where Mike began his journey as a marketing consultant in March 1988. Many at the company knew Mike from his childhood, having seen him grow up around the business.
Six months after joining Smithers, Mike was tasked with turning around the Akron Laboratory, which had been struggling financially. The rubber materials testing division was unprofitable, and Mike’s job was to find a solution. He created a plan that succeeded, turning the department into a profitable operation and taking over the entire Akron Lab, including tire analysis.
Recognizing his potential, Mike’s father, Herman, encouraged him to pursue an MBA. However, Mike knew he would need someone to lead the Akron Lab in his absence, so he began looking for a key hire.
Building a Strong Team
In October 1990, Mike interviewed Dave Schwarz, a candidate with seven years of experience at Firestone in tire development. Although Mike was exhausted from a long day, he conducted the interview on the loading dock, sitting in worn-out office chairs. Despite the casual setting, they hit it off, talking not just about work but their personal and professional experiences.
After the interview, Mike was skeptical, thinking Dave wouldn’t accept the offer due to the unconventional setting. However, Dave did accept and became a vital part of Smithers’ growth. Mike and Dave formed an excellent team—Mike was customer-focused, while Dave brought technical expertise. Together, they quickly became trusted advisors to large companies.
After 18 months, Mike left for Wharton Business School to pursue his MBA, leaving Dave to lead the Akron Lab. This partnership would shape Smithers into the successful company it is today.
Client Testimonials
Careers
Mission, Purpose, and Values
Our History
Innovate With Confidence
Executive Leadership
News
Experts
Accreditations
- The First Thirty Years: 1925-1955
- Building Upon a Trusted Brand - Evolution: 1956-1975
- Resilience and Expansion: 1976-1985
- Beginning of a New Era: 1986-1990
- Diversification and a New Era: 1991-2005
- A Flurry of Growth Activity: 2006-2011
- Expansion in the Life Sciences: 2012
- Organic Growth Period: 2013-2017
- Unity, Growth, and Resilience: 2018-2020
- Pushing the Boundaries of What is Possible: 2021-2024