KINGSPORT, Tenn., April 19, 2012 – Eastman Chemical Company recognized its inventors at the company’s Inventors’ Banquet held at the Millennium Centre in Johnson City, Tenn., for achievements that power the company’s innovations.
“Our inventors bring forward new ideas that spark innovation and contribute to Eastman’s continuing success and growth,” said Dr. Greg W. Nelson, senior vice president and chief technology officer of Eastman. “Through this event, we recognize their valuable contributions and honor the collaborative process within Eastman that moves their novel ideas to commercial success.”
The celebration honored the work of 193 inventors from company sites in the U.S. and Europe. Intellectual property law staff were also recognized for their contributions to the process.
Twenty-one employees received awards for their first issued U.S. patent. Milestone awards were presented to three employees for having earned their tenth patent and to five employees who reached the 20th patent level.
Emmett Dudley Crawford, Bruce Roger DeBruin, David Scott Porter, and Kenny Randolph Parker were recognized for earning their 30th patents. Charles Michael Buchanan and Robert Lin were recognized for earning their 40th patents.