FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 27, 2026
BRIGHTON, MI – Fortech Products, a leading industrial manufacturer of high-performance coatings and lubricants, is proud to announce the appointment of Ryan Gauthier as the company’s new President. The transition comes as Fortech celebrates its 30th anniversary, marking a strategic move to propel the company into its next phase of global innovation and service excellence.
Continuity in Leadership by Founder and CEO Creighton Forester
Founder and CEO Creighton Forester, who has led the company since its inception in 1995, will continue to serve as CEO. Forester’s transition allows him to focus on long-term enterprise strategy while handing day-to-day leadership to a veteran who intimately understands the company’s “customer-first” culture.
“With over ten and a half years at Fortech, Ryan has been an integral part of our success story,” said Forester. “He has worked in every facet of the business, from deeply understanding our chemistries to navigating the complexities of our global supply chain. He knows our culture and our customers, and brings the leadership and vision to guide Fortech forward.“
Ryan Gauthier: Leading with Team Empowerment and Product Evolution
Ryan has been a staunch advocate for team empowerment and product evolution. His “boots on the ground” experience across various departments has given him a unique perspective on streamlining operations while enhancing the tailored service Fortech is known for. He is wisely guiding the company through the adoption of AI technologies, driving process improvements, and enhancing our security measures to ensure a robust and innovative future
“I am honored to lead this incredible team into our fourth decade,” said Ryan. “Fortech has built something rare: a specialty chemistry business that combines deep technical expertise with the agility to move quickly for our customers. Our coatings and lubricants are trusted to protect and perform in some of the most demanding industrial environments in the world. I’m focused on strengthening our core product lines, deepening our partnerships, and giving our teams in Brighton, Guadalajara, and Shanghai what they need to grow alongside the industries we serve.“
Strategic Growth and Expansion
The leadership change follows a year of significant expansion for Fortech, including a strengthened regional footprint in Mexico and advancements in its IATF 16949-certified blending capabilities.
About Fortech Products: Founded in 1995 and based in Brighton, Michigan, Fortech Products is a premier manufacturer of industrial lubricants and coatings. Specializing in high-performance formulations and chemical management programs, Fortech helps manufacturers increase efficiency, reduce waste, and improve part quality. Learn more at www.fortechproducts.com.
Media Contact:
John Roediger
VP Sales – Fortech Products
[email protected]
803.409.8964