Don Kershner was reared in Allentown, graduating from Central Catholic High School in 1968 where he was active with the band, orchestra and jazz band. He played the French horn.

After attending Bethlehem Business School, he was employed in the office of the George Wolloch Company, a plastic recycling company.

His 42 year cement career started at Coplay Cement Company as a laborer in 1973, earning $3 an hour. He also worked in the finishing mill, repair gang and cement packing at the Coplay-owned Giant plant in Egypt.

When Coplay closed, he was fortunate to take his skills to Lone Star Cement in Nazareth.

At the plant, Don worked in the pack house, as a labor supervisor and laboratory technician.

"Frank Deiter and Donald France were my mentors in the lab," he recalls.

Soon, Lone Star fell on hard times and was purchased by Essroc.

"I was happy to have continued employment there!" he says.

In 2005 Essroc closed the Lone Star lab and consolidated operations in Nazareth when the kilns were shut down. The current Essroc laboratory team consists of Kevin Schlamp, Paul Tibbets, Martin Clark, Oscar Wagner, Don Levonian on quality control and supervisor Jim Costello, all excellent employees.

"Our group strives to make a quality product," Mr. Kershner says. "Some days there is frustration but it's very rewarding when our physical and chemical tests bring good results."

The laboratory uses x-ray technology checking on analyzing the quality of stone, clinker and the correct mix to ensure a quality product. Today all data is listed on computer reports so comparisons can be readily made.

Don enjoys working with many fine co-workers.

"I have seen many employees come and go and I have worked with a lot of good people," he says. "This alone makes my days on the job enjoyable."

Mr. Kershner has been married to the former Cindy Bair for 45 years. They are proud of son Christopher, daughter Jennifer and grandchildren Owen, Anya, Matthew, Emily and Clayton. The Kershners reside in Laury's Station.

Mr. Kershner is a dedicated cement worker who has witnessed many changes in the industry. He has seen some plants fade into history, but has faith in the cement industry.

We wish continued success to Mr. Kershner and all my friends at Essroc as they follow in the tradition of David Saylor, founder of Portland Cement in America.