On March 26, at the Silverado Resort & Spa in Napa, CA, John Hrdlick, President & CEO of INX International Ink Co., and Jim Kochanny, Senior VP/Chief Operating Officer, received prestigious accolades from the industry. Hrdlick was awarded the Ault Award for outstanding leadership, while Kochanny was recognized with an Ink Pioneer Award.
Hrdlick’s recognition is a fitting tribute to his remarkable 49-year career, with the last five years spent leading INX. His journey began in 1977 as a third-shift worker with Acme Printing, later acquired by INX’s parent company, SAKATA INX. Over the years, Hrdlick rose through the ranks, making significant contributions to every INX business segment, including Offset, Metal Decorating, Energy Cure, Liquid Inks, and Digital technologies.
His commitment extended beyond the company as he actively participated in industry associations, serving on the IMDPA Board of Directors and the NAPIM board. This is not Hrdlick’s first recognition; he previously received a NAPIM Ink Pioneer Award in 2013. To mark his retirement on April 30, the Metro New York Printing Ink Association (MNYPIA) will honor him with the esteemed Anthony Mauriello Award on April 20.
Reflecting on his retirement, Hrdlick expressed mixed emotions, acknowledging the challenges of the past five years, particularly the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. He commended the resilience of INX employees and looks forward to reconnecting with family in North Carolina, especially with the anticipation of his seventh and eighth grandchildren.
Jim Kochanny, recipient of the Ink Pioneer Award, has dedicated his career to INX since 1993. Starting as a packaging and warehouse specialist, he steadily progressed through various roles, showcasing his commitment to embracing new technology. His extensive experience includes roles as plant manager, GM of multiple facilities, and Director of Liquid Operations. In 2019, he was appointed Senior VP/Chief Operating Officer.
Kochanny is recognized for his technical expertise and active involvement in industry events like the NIPIRI Technical Conference and training seminars. Known for operating all manufacturing equipment at INX’s production facilities, he has played a pivotal role in the company’s growth planning, collaborating closely with the engineering division on expansion and new facility development projects.
