A chance meeting at a Sears store led to Ron Rauck joining the ink industry, Now, 33 years later, Rauck is EVP – ink for Toyo Ink America, LLC, an artience group company, and just received the prestigious NAPIM Printing Ink Pioneer Award for his leadership in the industry.

“While attending Indiana University, I worked part-time at Sears, selling electronics on commission,” Rauck recalled. “One night, I met Ben and Georgene Henson, who were moving to Indiana to open a branch of the ink company where Ben worked. After spending some time together, I sent them home with several items to help fill their new house.

“A few days later, they called to ask how I liked my job, which raised my alarm about customer satisfaction,” he added. “I interviewed with them, and Ben took me under his wing. I experienced a steep learning curve in ink color matching, formulation, manufacturing, and the printing process. I quickly transitioned into a technical sales role, leveraging my ability to understand customers’ needs alongside my newfound knowledge. Notably, at that point, I had never flown on an airplane—an experience that was about to change.”

Rauck’s career has spanned more than three decades, from Prism Industries to Color Converting/Siegwerk and now Toyo Ink America. He noted that there have been several memorable moments in his career.

“One that stands out is winning my first big account, which brought an incredible sense of achievement,” Rauck said. “Through that experience, I realized the importance of having a great team and the personal responsibility to ensure we deliver on our promises to customers.

“Being part of a start-up ink company was another highlight. Few people truly appreciate what it takes to launch a business, especially an ink company, with all the different elements required for success. We were fortunate to accomplish this, and I learned a tremendous amount along the way,” he added.

“Today, I consider my time at artience-Toyo Ink America a significant highlight,” Rauck noted. “Here, I feel I can make a meaningful contribution as part of the leadership team while helping to build and train the next generation. That is incredibly rewarding. Throughout my career, I’ve been fortunate to work with great people; both colleagues and customers have played a large role in my longevity in the industry.”

Rauck noted that it truly is an honor to receive the Pioneer Award.

“I want to thank everyone involved in this recognition,” Rauck concluded. “Over the years, I’ve witnessed many deserving individuals receive this award, and I deeply respect their contributions to the industry. It’s both exciting and humbling to be included among such esteemed company.”

Vipul Shah, president of Toyo Ink America, LLC, has known Rauck for 25 years, and said he is indeed a deserving recipient of the Pioneer Award.

“Ron has been a passionate advocate for our industry for over 30 years, both in his role as a mentor and as innovator,” Shah observed. “He has overseen the growth and development of multiple generations of inkies and a host of products and services that have advanced the value of our industry.  His passion shows through each day and has inspired me over the years.”

Rauck is thankful for the role that his mentors had on his career.

“I’ve been fortunate to have several individuals who have significantly influenced my career over the years,” said Rauck. “Ben Henson not only introduced me to the industry but also served as a great mentor and motivator. He and Georgene were exceptional business partners during our time owning Prism Industries.

“When I joined the Color Converting team in 2000, I had the privilege of working under Jim Ross. He taught me how to manage larger teams and navigate the complexities of various departments and personalities. His poise in crucial situations continues to be an example for me today,” Rauck added.

“More recently, Vipul Shah and Koji ‘Keith’ Wada have been highly influential in my career,” Rauck continued. “Believe it or not, I am just as energized and enthusiastic about the industry today as I was throughout most of my 33-year career. Vipul and Keith play a huge part in that. They motivate me to leverage my strengths while also providing support whenever needed.”

During the past 33 years, the ink industry has changed; Rauck observed that there has been significant consolidation among both ink companies and printers, which has transformed the industry in many ways.

“At the same time, there’s been a noticeable shift in the experience level of team members,” he continued. “For many years, I worked alongside individuals who had been in the industry ‘forever,’ bringing with them a wealth of experience and institutional knowledge. Many of these professionals have recently retired, taking that expertise with them.

“While it’s refreshing and exciting to see new ideas and skill sets entering the industry, it can be challenging to replace the years of institutional knowledge that has been lost,” added Rauck. “Nonetheless, it will be thrilling to witness the continued improvements and developments in our field, particularly as we shift our focus toward sustainability and recyclability in the U.S. market.”

Outside of work, Rauck loves spending time with my family.

“Given my heavy travel schedule, I’ve spent many hours away from them over the years,” he added. “When I’m home, I prioritize activities that bring us together—creating memories with both immediate and extended family and friends. Their support has been vital to my career and has greatly contributed to my success and longevity in the industry. When I do find the time, I enjoy playing golf, fishing, and spending time outdoors doing just about anything.”