APAC-Mississippi/Tennessee foreman Ronnie Hughes Sr. retires
After a career with APAC that spanned five decades, foreman Ronnie Hughes Sr. is retiring. One of the company’s most experienced foremen, he oversaw our West Memphis Asphalt Plant in East Arkansas.
During his 47 years with the company, Ronnie became a vital part of the APAC team. His knowledge, experience and dedication to his team made him indispensable. And his work ethic and leadership made him a source of inspiration for those who worked with him over the years.
When Ronnie began his career with APAC in 1973, there was no Sr. suffix at the end of his name. At Just 17 years old, he was too young to work at the plant, so he was trained to write tickets in the scale house at the Mud Island plant in Memphis, TN. He went to work at the Getwell plant when he turned 18 and left in 1975 to work construction jobs elsewhere for a few years. In 1979, he returned to APAC and took a position as a plant operator.
The second of four generations of his family to work at APAC, Ronnie was a plant operator working under his dad, a plant foreman, in the 1980s. When his father left, Ronnie took over the plant foreman position. Today, Ronnie’s son and grandson are both employed by APAC.
Although more than half a century of family history with the company is impressive, Ronnie’s legacy at APAC was also built in the little things: taking the time to do that extra safety check, make the new guy feel welcome from day one, or just help a coworker who was having a bad day.
“Ronnie Sr. holds a special place with our team. Throughout his 47-year career, he touched many lives, including mine,” said Juan Rios, APAC-Mississippi/Tennessee General Manager. “His commitment and dedication to this company are an example to many of us. If you ask anyone what makes Ronnie so special, many will tell you that it’s his passion for his people. He loved what he did and ALWAYS went above and beyond to help keep our operation going. We are going to miss Ronnie, but we wish him the best on this new journey. Happy retirement, Ronnie!”
As to his plans for retirement, Ronnie says he looks forward to spending time with his wife and family, riding his Harley, fishing and just enjoying himself.
“I’m going to relax and do whatever I want, whenever I want. No more time clock for me,” said Ronnie. “As this chapter of my life closes and a new one begins, I would like to thank all my bosses and co-workers for your hard work and dedication. I wish you all the best!”
