September 2025 - Allen Clonts
A bit about Allen Clonts
What do you find most fascinating/ challenging about the O&G industry?
I worked my first 17 years in the Chemical industry, with the last 8 in an adhesives group selling the Engineered Wood market. When I was leaving to come to Rubber, one of our top chemists ask me why do you want to go into Rubber … I said what do mean … he said his first job after grad school was in rubber and it frustrated him dearly because nothing ever made any sense! There is definitely a lot of “art” in the industry! I think the Oil & Gas industry is the same way. Full of techniques and know-how that only comes from experiences, not necessarily a book. You are always learning.
What is your hobby and why?
I love to be active. I play tennis, golf, and do all the Lake activities. We have cabin on Table Rock Lake in Missouri and there is no better place to forget the world than at the lake.
Have you had a mentor in the industry, and what valuable lesson/catch phrase has that person passed to you?
I have had a few mentors throughout my career I am grateful for them. One of the things that has always stuck with me is what my former boss often said early in my career was "You can only be as good as your team."
What do you enjoy most about your job, and what advice to you have for others?
I find it fascinating just how much rubber exists… It’s everywhere. So many different markets and applications. I would encourage any younger person to pursue a career in the rubber industry. It’s unique and full of opportunities.
How long have you been with EPG, and what brings you back year after year?
I started going in 2007, got involved with the board, and was ERG Chair in 2014. Fantastic organizations! Love how all the various channels are involved from the end user to all the supply chains.
