About Mike
Mr. Hochschwender is the Chief Executive Officer of The Smithers Group Inc., Akron, Ohio, a private group of companies that provides technology-based services to global clientele in a broad range of industries. He also served as President until May 2021. Under his leadership since 1996, Smithers has experienced rapid growth, technological diversification, and geographic expansion through an aggressive series of acquisitions as well as organic growth. Mr. Hochschwender has three decades of corporate management and consulting experience.
Mr. Hochschwender served five years in the U.S. Navy SEAL Teams, deploying to Southeast Asia and the Middle East and attaining the rank of Commander. He is active in local health, civic, and educational organizations, currently serving on the boards of Burton D. Morgan Foundation and the Tulane School of Science and Engineering. He also served on the boards of Akron General Medical Center, the Greater Akron Chamber of Commerce, Ohio Foundation of Independent Colleges, Old Trail School, The American Council of Independent Laboratories, and The University of Akron Foundation. Mr. Hochschwender previously served as a director of FirstMerit Corporation for 10 years and as a member of the audit committee and the compensation committee.
Mr. Hochschwender brings substantial leadership and executive experience, as well as business experience in the northeast Ohio market, to the Board.
Mr. Hochschwender holds a bachelor’s degree in biology and environmental studies from Tulane University and a master’s degree in business administration from the Wharton School of Business at the University of Pennsylvania.
Committees: Human Resources and Compensation Committee, Technology Committee (Chair)