Plaskolite
Tell us a brief history/background of your organization.
Donald G. Dunn, PLASKOLITE’s founder, was a decorated WWII veteran, earning a Silver Star for his bravery. His military service instilled in him a disciplined, integrity-driven approach that would later shape his leadership style and business philosophy. In 1950, he launched PLASKOLITE, initially producing consumer plastic goods like hula hoops and fly swatters to meet the booming post-war demand.
PLASKOLITE’s major breakthrough came with the rise of fluorescent lighting across the U.S., which required diffusers to protect and soften the light. By developing prismatic lighting panels and other flat sheet innovations, PLASKOLITE quickly became a key player in the industry. This success propelled the company’s growth, leading to innovations in thermoplastic products and numerous strategic acquisitions.
Dunn’s leadership was built on integrity, responsiveness, and a commitment to strong relationships—qualities that distinguished PLASKOLITE in the competitive plastics industry. His dedication to quality and innovation laid the groundwork for its evolution into one of North America’s largest manufacturers of engineered thermoplastics. His hands-on approach and entrepreneurial spirit firmly established PLASKOLITE’s customer-focused culture and its enduring philosophy of “doing things the right way.”
Describe the impact that your organization has on NEPA.
PLASKOLITE’s Scranton, PA plant is a vital part of its global operations, employing approximately 160 and contributing significantly to the NEPA region. The facility became part of PLASKOLITE through the acquisition of VYCOM, a company with deep local roots that started in 1983. VYCOM’s early success came from solving a major problem in the coal mining industry, a key economic driver in the area. Traditional metal coal chutes struggled with friction, moisture, and corrosion, resulting in constant damage and short lifespans. In response, local entrepreneurs developed the first HDPE coal chute, which offered a dramatically longer life and better performance.
Building on this innovative start, VYCOM grew to become a respected manufacturer of specialty thermoplastic sheets for applications requiring durability, weatherability, and chemical resistance. Since joining PLASKOLITE, the Scranton plant has expanded its product offerings to include high-performance brands like SEABOARD®, CELTEC®, and FLAMETEC® for key markets such as marine, signage, and industrial applications.
As a global leader in engineered thermoplastics, PLASKOITE strengthens the regional economy by providing stable employment, supporting local suppliers, and engaging in community initiatives. Committed to sustainable manufacturing and innovation, the company produces high-quality, recyclable materials that meet industry demands. PLASKOLITE is proud to be part of NEPA’s history and future, helping to drive regional growth while continuing to deliver positive community impact.
How did your organization come to work with Leadership Lackawanna?
PLASKOLITE’s partnership with Leadership Lackawanna began with Walter Tompkins, Health, Safety and Environmental Manager and Jen Azarowicz, Scranton Plant Manager, participating in their Core Leadership Program. This initial experience demonstrated the program’s value in enhancing leadership skills, fostering community involvement, and building strong professional connections. Since then, we’ve continued to invest in leadership development by enrolling several employees in various Leadership Lackawanna programs.
Our commitment has grown over time, with Jen Azarowicz now serving on the organization’s Board of Directors. This partnership reflects PLASKOLITE’s dedication to cultivating strong, community-focused leaders who contribute not only to our company’s success but also to the broader NEPA region.
What are your organization's best practices?
At PLASKOLITE, golf is more than just a pastime—it’s a key part of our culture and how we build relationships. Whether it's fostering camaraderie within our internal teams, strengthening partnerships with customers, or networking with industry partners, golf offers a unique setting for connection, collaboration, and mutual respect. The game’s values—integrity, patience, strategy, and respect for rules—align closely with PLASKOLITE’s core principles.
We often participate in golf outings and tournaments, which serve as both team-building events and opportunities to engage with our customers in a relaxed, yet professional environment. These events help foster trust and deepen partnerships, reflecting our belief that strong relationships are the foundation of long-term success.
In addition to relationship-building, the game of golf has influenced our internal leadership philosophy. Much like the unwritten rules of being a great caddy—staying attentive, knowing when to provide support, and always being respectful—our leadership approach emphasizes thoughtful decision-making, collaboration, and respect for individual contributions.
At PLASKOLITE, golf represents more than sport; it embodies our approach to business—balance, integrity, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. It’s a shared experience that brings us together and helps us move forward as a unified team.
What else would you like us to know?
Being in the plastics industry involves embodying stewardship of our environment. PLASKOLITE is dedicated to sustainability and responsible manufacturing, focusing on durable, recyclable thermoplastics for long-term use in industries like construction, transportation, and lighting. Unlike single-use plastics, our products are designed to last and support a circular economy by reducing waste.
Our thermoplastics are an essential part of everyday life, enabling key innovations such as electric vehicles, LED lighting, skylights, and lightweight cars and buses—advancing energy efficiency and reducing environmental impact. From improving transportation to enhancing energy use in buildings, PLASKOLITE’s materials drive sustainable solutions across industries.
We continuously innovate to create eco-friendly products, including thermoplastics with high recycled content, while prioritizing energy efficiency and waste reduction in our operations. As a responsible industry leader, PLASKOLITE remains committed to improving environmental impact, fostering community partnerships, and delivering sustainable solutions for future generations.