John H. McConnell
In 1955, veteran John H. McConnell purchased his first load of steel and founded Worthington Industries. He went on to become the country's leading intermediate steel processor and manufacturer of metal related products; leading a company with annual sales approximately $2 billion, 8000 employees and 61 facilities in 10 countries and 22 states.
McConnell's net worth of billions began with one single and highly valuable bill: the GI Bill.
John McConnell had served his country in the United States Navy, aboard the U.S.S. Saratoga, during World War II. After the war, with the help of the GI Bill, he attended Michigan State University and graduated with a degree in Business Administration.
McConnell recognized a niche in the steel industry and launched Worthington Industries, a company that offered steel processing with shorter lead times, superior quality, and a guarantee to fill any size order - something the big steel mills did not do.
McConnell's Worthington Industries was named one of the top 100 Companies to Work For in America. At the core of McConnell's business philosophy is the company's Golden Rule: "We treat our customers, employees, investors, and suppliers as we would like to be treated."
McConnell is also known as one of central Ohio's most generous citizens. His McConnell Heart/Health Center at Riverside Hospital provides the community with the highest level of medical care.
McConnell has received numerous honors and awards: Financial World Magazine's Outstanding Chief Executive Officer of the Year; The Horatio Alger Award; Ohio Governor's Award, National Football Foundation Gold Medal; Industry Week Award for Excellence in Management; and membership in the National Junior Achievement Business Hall of Fame.
