Gema’s Chris Merritt Inducted into PCI Hall of Fame

Gema USA Inc. (Indianapolis, Ind.) has announced the induction of Chris Merritt, retired Vice President of Gema North America, into the Powder Coating Institute (PCI) Hall of Fame. The honor was bestowed upon Chris on June 5, 2024 at the PCI Annual Meeting held in Savannah, Georgia, recognizing his substantial contributions to the powder coating industry. Merritt was inducted by PCI Hall of Fame member Marc Fooksman.

Merritt's career with Gema has spanned nearly four decades, marked by exceptional leadership and innovative contributions to the powder coating industry. He began his journey with Gema in 1984, after graduating from Purdue University with a degree in Mechanical Engineering Technology. Over the years, Merritt held various key positions before becoming the General Manager of Gema North America in 2005; and later his promotion to Vice President. 

Merritt's influence extended beyond Gema, significantly impacting the broader powder coating community. He has been a staunch advocate for industry education and development, actively participating in and leading the Powder Coating Institute (PCI). Throughout his career, Merritt served as a PCI committee member and chairman, contributing to the establishment of industry standards and best practices. His strategic insights and leadership skills earned him multiple terms on the PCI Board of Directors, and his leadership was further recognized through his election as PCI President on several occasions. As a contributing editor to the PCI Powder Coating Handbook, Merritt played a key role in the development and dissemination of industry knowledge. He was also a frequent speaker at PCI industry training programs, sharing his expertise and fostering professional growth within the industry.