Chris Cox programs a five-axis computer-controlled router capable of machining parts up to the size of an automobile.
composite parts in the aerospace industry. Touchstone ships molds to most of the major aerospace companies in the world. “It is amazing that next-generation airplanes are built with molds made from West Virginia coal,” Joseph says. “Our coalbased products have been to Iraq, flown on the fastest vehicles in existence, been used as rocket nozzles and insulation and made parts for the largest sailboat race in the world. It’s amazing what coal can do.” Joseph created an aggressive vision for the company, including a plan to spin out new companies in the Mountain State that will manufacture the products in Touchstone’s innovation pipeline. The first will be a composite mold enterprise that Joseph calls Touchstone Advanced Composites. A second business on the Touchstone launching pad is its CFOAM business. “West Virginia exports coal at 25 cents per pound,” Joseph says. “In three manufacturing steps, we can convert our coal into high-tech aerospace products that make a difference not only in the success and profitability of hundreds of large and small companies but in people’s lives as well.” The innovation pool of Touchstone Research Laboratory is deep. Over the past 10 years, Touchstone has averaged about one new patent application per month in a wide array of disciplines. “The future challenge for Touchstone,” says Joseph, “is to convert all these innovations into businesses that bolster the economy of West Virginia while continuing to invent the future.” Photography by Aaron Stimmell and Ron Snow
W I N N ER O F T H E 2012 I HG A M ER ICA’S R EN OVAT IO N AWA R D • Newly Renovated Hotel and Conference Center • State-of-the-Art Event Spaces • Indoor Pool and Fitness Complex • Free High-Speed Wireless Internet • Complimentary Airport and Area Shuttle • Two-Room Suites Available
www.wvexecutive.com
(formerly Ramada Charleston)
400 2nd Ave., SW Charleston, WV 25303 304-744-4641 www.hicharleston.com
fall 2012
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