The printing ink industry has been a family affair for Tom Socha, VP, director of national accounts at INX International Ink Co. Socha has been in the printing ink industry for 45 years, beginning when he took a summer job working for his father at Croda Inks Corp. in Cincinnati.

Socha learned the business from the ground up, from mixing and milling to serving as production manager and quality control roles until 1995. When his father retired from Croda, Socha was became GM of the ink operation.

In 2005, Socha joined INX as director of national accounts, becoming vice president in 2007. His focus was on energy curable flexo and sheetfed inks, earning him a promotion to vice president of sales for the liquid ink division in 2019.

Socha grew up in Milwaukee, and receiving the Pioneer Award in his old hometown was a special moment.

“I was born and raised in Milwaukee, so receiving the Ink Pioneer award there was special to me,” Socha said. “My father received the award in 1981, three years after my uncle did. Following in their footsteps is an absolute honor. I have been very fortunate to have been involved and learned every aspect of the ink industry. Having a background in manufacturing and R&D was critical to my success on the sales side.”

His colleagues say that Socha is most deserving of the Pioneer Award.

“Tom and I have worked together for about 20 years,” said INX pricing manager Janice Hensley. “He is dedicated to serving our customers and community while keeping the goals of our organization in the forefront. His professionalism and attention to detail has made for a very efficient working relationship. Tom’s decisive yet humble approach with his coworkers makes working with him an absolute pleasure. I congratulate him on an outstanding career and achievements and cannot think of anyone more deserving.”

“I’ve worked with Tom for over 20 years and based on his professionalism, he is deserving of the Ink Pioneer award,” added Donna Rodriquez, INX executive VP sales administrative assistant. “He has always been enthusiastic and motivated, and a pleasure to work with. Tom’s knowledge and technical skills have made him the go-to person for anyone experiencing problems or challenges. His contributions over the years have contributed to the success of INX.”