Jerry Walker has been executive director of the Gypsum Association since Oct. 1988. With his retirement becoming official Dec. 31, W&C spoke with him about his experiences in the gypsum industry.
Jerry Walker: Gypsum Association's primary mission is to enhance the use of gypsum board and products in North America. It was chartered in 1930 in Chicago, with about 20 companies as initial members. About a year later, 17 or so more became members. Within a year of official formation, membership was in the upper 30s. The bylaws stipulate that firms or individuals that join must calcine gypsum and manufacture gypsum board. Any firm (or individual) in the United States can join if this criteria is met. Firms in Canada or Mexico can join as associate members. Although Canada is represented, there are no official Mexican members yet.