Sadly the former CEO of SPIROL, Hans H. Koehl passed on November 30th, 2023. Born in Stolberg, Germany, Koehl immigrated with his mother, father and two sisters, Gerda and Emmy, to the United States in 1948 and settled in Woodstock, CT.
Hans H. Koehl, former CEO of SPIROL
Shortly after starting school in the US, Koehl quickly mastered the English language and skipped ahead two grades within his first year at The Woodstock Academy. After graduating from Killingly High School in Dayville, CT, he went on to earn his bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering with distinction from Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) in 1956, and his Juris Doctorate from Stanford University in 1958.
A brilliant engineer and keen businessman, Koehl joined Connecticut Engineering and Manufacturing Company (now called SPIROL) in 1959 after passing the bar in both California and Connecticut. He was elected executive VP and counsel in 1962, and president in 1965, before becoming chairman and CEO in 1969.
Under his leadership, the company was transformed from a small, family-owned business into a world-renowned manufacturing company with locations on four continents and in 13 countries.
Koehl retired from active management of SPIROL in 2004 after 45 years of dedicated service, yet remained a steadfast leader as chairman of the holding board of directors and managing director of SPIROL Europe, and as trustee and founding member of the SPIROL Charitable Foundation.
Governor M. Jodi Rell proclaimed August 26, 2004 as “Hans H. Koehl Day” in the State of Connecticut on the occasion of his being honoured by employees of SPIROL and stated, “Throughout his tenure at SPIROL, Hans Koehl has displayed professionalism, an outstanding work ethic and a commitment to excellence that are truly appreciated. He has been an inspirational leader and a role model for all citizens to follow.”
In support of his commitment to education and passion for engineering, Koehl spearheaded the establishment of the SPIROL Scholarship Program, which has awarded over $1 million to local students dedicated to community service who pursue a degree in engineering, basic science and manufacturing technology.
His unwavering financial support of local schools funded the expansion of facilities and the implementation of new programs in support of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Mathematics) at The Woodstock Academy, Killingly High School, Ellis Tech, and Quinebaug Valley Community College.
Koehl was an amazing person, and his impact is far reaching beyond his unparalleled contributions to SPIROL.
To learn more about Hans H. Koehl, please click here.
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