AVN is a leading research and development firm with core competencies in the areas of chemicals and chemical manufacturing, technical engineering and advanced software technologies. With their deep technical heritage and uncommon lab and pilot plant facilities, the company is working with customers around the world to solve the toughest problems in science and technology.
Interview with Jeremy Rader, Business Development Manager at AVN Corp.
Easy Engineering: What’s the news about new products/services?
Jeremy Rader: AVN Corp. continues to invest in necessary infrastructure to support its global client base and market needs. It recently installed a high pressure 400-gallon stainless steel reactor with jacket set up for hydrogenation reactions or other chemistries. The reactor complements existing equipment such as separations and other reaction capabilities. The Company also installed a new spinning band distillation system to quickly evaluate the separation of liquid mixtures with similar boiling points.
Additionally, AVN Corp. team members were honored with prestigious industry recognitions:
- Dr. Jack Dever, executive vice president and chief technology officer: recipient of the 2023 Lawrence B. Evans Award in Chemical Engineering from The American Institute of Chemical Engineers.
- Dr. Raymond Rooks, principal engineer: named Fellow of the American Institute of Chemical Engineers (AIChE)
- Brooke Albin, senior manager of laboratories: recipient of Emerging Leader Award from The Society of Chemical Manufacturers & Affiliates
- Jennifer Pramuk, GIS developer II: Achieved GIS Professional certification
- Dr. Parvez Wadia, vice president of strategic initiatives: recipient of the 2023 Earle B. Barnes Award for Leadership in Chemical Research Management from the American Chemical Society
E.E: What are the ranges of products/services?
J.R: AVN Corp.’s key capabilities include:
- Process and Product Development
- Separation Technologies
- Reaction/Catalyst Technologies
- Process Pilot Plants – Design and Operation
- Specialty and Custom Manufacturing
- Advanced Software Technologies
E.E: What is the state of the market where you are currently active?
J.R: Currently, AVN Corp. operates in a dynamic market encompassing plastics, polymers, renewables, green technology, and automotive sectors, in addition to our advanced software sector engagement in the federal space in the United States.
Our presence in these sectors has delivered sustained growth, driven by a heightened focus on sustainability and innovation. As we explore opportunities to expand our footprint, we are strategically evaluating entry into the pharmaceutical API supply chain as well as specialty chemicals, recognizing both sectors’ potential for growth in the U.S. and our ability to contribute value through our expertise and capabilities. Overall, the state of our active markets reflects a commitment to adaptability, technological advancement, and a forward-looking approach to meet evolving industry demands.
E.E: What can you tell us about market trends?
J.R: Society is demanding better handling of the life cycle of plastics to increase efficiency and reduce pollution. AVN has been playing a part in developing revolutionary changes in how plastics are produced and repurposed. We are helping companies make significant strides toward a circular economy, particularly in the plastics industry.
Jeremy Rader is business development manager at AVN Corp. He was a student intern with the organization prior to joining as a full-time employee in 2006. He has been an instrumental leader and team member on a variety of projects, including process development and pilot plant activities. He has also contributed to the design and installation of control systems in AVN’s various facilities. He is a recognized Siemens PCS 7 expert and Licensed Professional Engineer (WV). He earned a B.S. in chemical engineering from West Virginia University Institute of Technology.
E.E: What are the most innovative products/services marketed?
J.R: At AVN, we are pioneering innovation. The depth of AVN’s expertise in chemical product research, product development, process improvement, process safety, engineering and manufacturing is not unique in and of each element, but rather because all these disciplines are concentrated in one organization. It is this anomaly that sets AVN apart from its competitors. A company might have to interact with five or more service providers to obtain a similar level of expertise. Applying this broad perspective enables AVN to move products from concept to commercialization at a speed that creates a competitive advantage for our customers.
E.E: What estimations do you have for the beginning of 2024?
J.R: AVN Corp. anticipates a strong 2024. Our chosen sectors are rich with growth potential, with that growth driven both by societal expectations for a more sustainable footprint for the industries we serve, and by the innovation needs for the chemical sector. AI enhanced big data architecture is another strength of our talented team, and it will continue to be a growth opportunity moving into 2024. The uncertainties present across the globe driven by tragedies and conflict present the case for dutiful study of the implications of both action and inaction, but AVN Corp.’s leadership has always owned a bias for action and that will continue in 2024.
