November 25, 2025
My name is Patrice Yacko, and I serve as the Director of Human Resources at Dover Chemical Corporation. I have been with Dover for nearly three years and bring over 20 years of experience in the human resources field. I earned my MBA with a concentration in Human Resource Management from Youngstown State University.
Dover Chemical, headquartered in the charming town of Dover, Ohio, has been in operation for over 50 years. We are a leading producer of alkylphenols, chlorinated alkanes, polymer additives, liquid and solid antioxidants (including organophosphites), flame retardants, and additives for both water-based and oil-based metalworking fluids and drilling fluids. In addition to our Dover facility, we also operate a manufacturing site in Hammond, Indiana. Together, we employ approximately 280 dedicated team members.
As a subsidiary of ICC Industries Inc., based in New York, Dover Chemical remains committed to innovation, safety, and sustainability. Above all, we believe our employees are our greatest assets, and we strive to foster a workplace culture where they feel valued, supported, and empowered to grow.
I was inspired to get involved with the Workforce Development Board because I see firsthand the importance of aligning education, training, and career pathways with the evolving needs of employers. In my role at Dover Chemical, I work daily to ensure we are developing, retaining, and supporting talent, and I recognize the value of having strong community partnerships to build a sustainable pipeline of skilled workers. What excites me most about being part of this board is the opportunity to collaborate with other leaders, share best practices, and create programs that make a real difference in preparing individuals for meaningful careers while strengthening the economic vitality of our region.
The workforce challenge I feel most passionate about addressing is the skills gap between what employers need and what workers are prepared for. In manufacturing and related industries, we often see highly technical roles go unfilled because candidates don’t have the training or certifications required. I am committed to helping bridge this gap by supporting programs that align education, workforce training, and industry needs so that individuals are well-prepared for meaningful careers and employers have access to the talent they need to thrive.
One of my favorite things outside of work is being active in my church and local community. I enjoy volunteering, supporting events, and connecting with others through service. I enjoy crafting, coloring with markers, and re-purposing furniture.
