AKRON (May 5, 2004) — Goodyear has named 35-year veteran Samuel Landers, one of the developers of the Aquatred passenger tire, an R&D Fellow.
The title is the highest non-management title in the Akron-based tire maker's research and development organization. It was created in 1980. Mr. Landers, who manages Goodyear's Future Technology Development group, is the fifth person to be given the title.
Goodyear fellows are responsible for providing consulting and directional services on major programs, the company said. They keep management and associates apprised of the latest technological trends and developments as they relate to corporate business objectives.
“(Mr. Landers) has directed cross-functional teams in the successful development and release of more than 30 new passenger tire products, and he's been granted more than 50 patents,” said Joseph Gingo, executive vice president of Quality Systems and chief technical officer.
Mr. Landers also was involved in the development of the new Assurance line of tires, launched in February.