Nominated 2014
George L. Hess Jr. graduated from Berlin High School in 1955 and served four years in the United States Air Force, later receiving his Bachelor of Science Degree from UW-Oshkosh.
From 1960 to 1962 he worked in the electronics field in Buffalo N. Y. and then in Oak Creek, WI on the Modular Guidance System in the U.S. Space Program. In 1962 he joined the C.A. Chier Sand Co. as a partner with his father-in-law, Cliff Chier and brother-in-law, Russell Chier. In 1979, he and Russ co-founded the family owned business now known as Badger Mining Corp., an industrial silica sand mining firm.
George became a licensed pilot in 1982 and a member of the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Assoc. (AOPA). He authored Tales of the Bearpaw Bear Hunters, and also did oil and acrylic painting. He was a member of several service organizations and served on Boards of Directors, including Badger Mining Corp.
With his and Chier’s leadership, Badger Mining annually won national awards and recognition for their corporate governance and for their employment ambiance and professionalism and exceptional treatment of their employees. “I have been fortunate to work with outstanding associates. The T.E.A.M. (Together Employees and Management) working environment has made our family business successful and a fun place to work. The power of team allows every associate to experience the feeling of ownership,” stated George on his nomination form.
You don’t have to be smart to surround yourself with associates that are smarter than you. But it is a key ingredient of success.