Sandy Thomson is recognized for his polymer bearing innovations.

In the bearing world there are some global brands that come to mind such as SKF in Sweden NTN in Japan and Timken in the US, but Canada has it’s own innovative player and its patriarch has been awarded the global transportation sector’s most distinguished accolade.

Thordon Bearings’ founder and polymer materials pioneer George (Sandy) Thomson is the 2019 recipient of the Elmer A. Sperry Award for “advancing the art of transportation,” joining luminaries such as Donald Douglas, Ferdinand Porsche, Sir Geoffrey De Havilland and Malcolm McLean.

Established in 1955, the award commemorates the life of Elmer A. Sperry, whose creations include the gyroscope, the first electric automobile and navigational aids that contributed to the advancement of many modes of transportation.

“To be presented with this prize is a testament to the talent and dedication of all those working tirelessly within the company to develop safer, more environmentally friendly solutions for all sectors of industry,” said the 81-year-old Thomson. “It’s our material scientists, technologists and engineers