The ubiquitous glass container is
an afterthought in modern life. Today?s marketing focus is on the beverage
inside the bottle and the snappy jingle or ad that clamors for consumer
attention. But before the bottle was filled, it had to be made. Prior to the
automated machines invented by Michael Owens, child labor was the backbone in
producing inconsistent and unsanitary containers for foods, beverages, and
medicines.
In this biography of the unassuming
visionary, artist, and craftsman, Skrabec?s historical account of glass making
sets the stage for the revolutionary inventions of Michael Owens, a big-picture,
true-to-life Horatio Alger character. His automated inventions were vital to
electric lighting, food and beverage packaging, advanced optics, and automotive
safety. The reduction of child labor was a direct and significant outcome of his
inventions. With nine companies and forty-nine patents bearing his name, Michael
J. Owens ultimately became known as the father of project management. This is an
engaging account of this unpretentious, resourceful, colorful, and dynamic
industrialist and inventor.
About the Author
Dr. Skrabec?s long list of
academic degrees includes a Ph.D. in manufacturing management from the
University of Toledo, an M.S. in metallurgical and industrial engineering from
Ohio State University, and an M.S./B.S. in management, operations, systems, and
organizational leadership as well as an M.B.A. in business administration,
organizational leadership, and behavior from Robert Morris University. He has
written more than fifty articles and five books on history, industrial history,
and business. Dr. Skrabec is an adjunct professor at Findlay University and is a
sought-after speaker for management conferences, having appeared at over thirty
national gatherings.
MICHAEL OWENS AND THE GLASS INDUSTRY
By Quentin R. Skrabec, Jr.
320 pp. 6 x 9
58 photos Notes Index
ISBN: 1-58980-385-X
EAN: 978-1-58980-385-5