Lighting A Path

Clint Medlock continues to illuminate positive steps forward for the diecutting/diemaking industry, even amidst persistent economic challenges.

CLINT MEDLOCK FIRST entered the diecutting/diemaking industry on the simple promise of stability—a steady job to go to each day. More than 25 years later, he is a seasoned shop owner and enthusiastic visionary whose selfless approach to leadership has inspired countless colleagues in the field and in the International Association of Diecutting and Diemaking (IADD). It is this flair for lifting up those around him for the betterment of the industry—particularly during the extreme economic challenges of the past two years--which has earned Clint Medlock the honor of packagePRINTING's 2003 IADD Diecutter/Diemaker of the Year.

"Clint Medlock defines leadership," says Eddie Mucci Jr., general manager of National Steel Rule Die and IADD president-elect. "They say a leader is someone who can take you places you otherwise wouldn't go. Whether it's a new type of show, or developing a closer relationship with our colleagues in Europe, Clint has led the way."

Mucci recalls how even after Medlock decisively led the IADD in developing its unique Odyssey trade show concept, he still insisted that Mucci do the ribbon cutting honors at the show's opening day ceremony. "He doesn't push you; he pulls you along," says Mucci. "He makes you want to do things for him."

Joe Adkison, president of Adko Inc., remembers Medlock's reassuring leadership when the September 11 terrorist attacks occurred on the eve of the association's 2001 Annual Meeting in Niagara Falls. "Clint was steadfast in his desire to lead our association, and mentioned that we would all make it through this," says Adkison. True to Medlock's word, the IADD quickly regrouped for a resoundingly successful meeting in Point Clear, Ala. later that year.

Medlock's calm determination in the face of adversity has further come to light in the past 12 months. "I think that we have been faced with very difficult times of late," says Adkison. "Clint has pushed even harder to make people aware of our challenges, while adding gentle nudges to help people rise above their comfort zone with visible results."