The NCDMM story would not be complete without mentioning Lawrence J. Rhoades, whose entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to the advancement of manufacturing processes was known industry-wide. Larry was also one of one of the founding fathers of the NCDMM, and an inaugural member of the Board of Directors where he served until his untimely death in 2007.
Larry left a profound and indelible mark not only on the manufacturing industry, but also here, at the NCDMM. Every day, each of us is reminded of Larry upon entering NCDMM headquarters in Blairsville where a magnificent Bald Eagle statue sits. It was a gift from Larry to the NCDMM not long after our founding.
That Bald Eagle serves as a daily reminder of not only a symbolic representation of our great nation and the freedoms it affords, but also the entrepreneurial spirit of Americans that Larry so believed in and exhibited.
To honor Larry’s legacy, the NCDMM named an award, its highest honor, in his name and with the award depicting an Eagle.
Each year at our annual SUMMIT event, the NCDMM awards the Lawrence J. Rhoades Award to an individual who or organization that shares Mr. Rhoades’ tireless commitment, futuristic vision, and unwavering dedication to the manufacturing industry.
Extrude Hone Corp. and the ExOne Company. He held a bachelor’s degree in economics and mechanical engineering from Brown University and a master’s in business from Northwestern University.