Schatz Moves to CEO at Park Industries

ST. CLOUD, Minn. – Joan Schatz is the new chief executive officer for Park Industries.

Schatz, currently co-president and COO for the St. Cloud-based fabrication-machinery company, was promoted by the company’s board of directors.

“Joan has the experience and leadership skills to lead Park Industries as the company pursues future growth and market expansion opportunities,” said Tom Bartoe, chairman of the board.

Schatz joined Park Industries in 2006 as chief financial officer and served as co-president since 2011. As co-president, she successfully managed the complexity of the COVID-19 pandemic while continuing to provide customer service. 

She also was a 2018 honoree of the Women in Manufacturing STEP (Science, Technology, Engineering and Production) Ahead Award from The Manufacturing Institute.

“Her vision for the future has resulted in several product development initiatives that will help the company grow in the markets served and advance the technology of the countertop fabrication industry,” noted the company statement announcing the promotion.

“It is an honor to serve as CEO of Park Industries,” Schatz said. “In this new role, I will be focusing on providing the best possible experience for our customers and associates, continuing to innovate our product offering in new ways, and unlocking future growth opportunities for Park Industries and fabricators across North America.”

“It has been a tremendous honor to work side-by-side with Joan,” added Mike Schlough, Park Industries president/co-owner, “and, I thank her for leadership and tireless dedication to the company. I am excited for her to assume this new role and for the future of the company.”

Park Industries has been manufacturing precision cutting equipment since 1953. Headquartered in St. Cloud, it is a family-owned company employing over 320 associates.