Airgas executive chairman receives lifetime achievement award

Airgas Inc. has announced that its executive chairman, Peter McCausland, has received the Lifetime Achievement Award from Chemical Marketing & Economics (CM&E), a topical group of the American Chemical Society's New York section (ACS NY).

McCausland was recognized for his many years of leadership at Airgas, a supplier of industrial, medical, and specialty gases in Radnor, Pa. McCausland founded the company in 1982 with the purchase of Connecticut Oxygen, an industrial gas distributor. He led the company through more than 400 acquisitions in 30 years.

"Few people can found a company, help propel it for three decades, and turn it into a consistent top performer in its class," said George Rodriguez, chairman of CM&E, board member of ACS NY section, and director at Argeni. "McCausland is a pioneer who has remained undaunted when faced with challenging market shifts. His passion for creating an environment focused on customers, strengthening operational efficiencies, and helping society through his foundation constitutes an exemplary pillar for the chemical industry."