Mr. Ron Koch was raised in Northampton, graduating from Northampton High School in 1982. He wrestled four years in over 100 matches under coach Gordon Bartholomew.

“I admired Gordy,” he says. “He kept me on the straight and narrow path of life and always stressed respect in teamwork.”

After graduation, he worked for his father, Ron, at their popular Pennsville market. He later was employed by ITT, installing business telephones and servicing them. It proved to be a valuable learning experience. Ron started his cement career at Lafarge in 1994.

“I was recommended by my uncle, Bob Sickonic, who was a plant electrician,” he says. “I earned good money - $8.42 an hour - starting on the tire dock, which was physically demanding.”

Over the years, Ron has held a variety of positions at the plant, including service gang, production journeyman, loading station, electrical gang and quarry crusher. As a result, he is familiar with the complete plant operation.

Presently, he is in the plant parts department. He received excellent training from Sam Ruzika. His current supervisor is Cain Cabrera, both fine men.

He is responsible for receiving, delivering parts throughout the plant and listing a complete and updated inventory.

The computer has changed the inventory system.

“We are the hub of the plant and have interaction with all the plant’s employees, both supervisors and union members,” he says. “Teamwork helps us operate the plant in a safe and efficient manner.”

Ron is a dedicated cement worker who remembers his grandfather, Frank Farkas, who worked at the historic Lawrence Cement Company.

Mr. Koch is married to the former Jill Swantek. He is proud of sons Justin and Rowen, daughters Lauren and Nicole and three grandsons.

In his spare time, he is busy with son Rowen’s activities.

Mr. Koch is a valued Lafarge employee. He realizes and upholds the tradition of our local cement workers and is proud to work at Lafarge, the Lehigh Valley’s oldest cement plant.