BUFFALO, N.Y. --  U-C Coatings, LLC, a manufacturer of wood protection products, has announced the retirement of Tom Johel, its chief executive officer.

Johel began his career with U-C Coatings as a sales representative in 1987, bringing experience in the lumber and furniture manufacturing industries to the company. He was instrumental in the growth of U-C Coatings and was promoted to vice president of sales in 1992, where he oversaw the expansion of the company’s product line and sales activity for the North American hardwood market. With a growing customer base, he assumed management of manufacturing as well as sales.

In 1999, he became president and chief operating officer, increasing productivity and overseeing expansion of the company’s headquarters in 2001. In 2018, Tom assumed the role of CEO, where he managed the company and oversee strategic expansion opportunities. See http://www.uccoatings.com.