Meet Erin Spring. Sr Director, Global Material Science at The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company.
Ohio Tech Summit Spotlight:
Erin Spring
Erin joined us on a short Q&A for the Ohio Tech Summit Spotlight Series to talk about innovation beyond internal research, testing, and development.
Name: Erin Spring
Title: Sr Director, Global Material Science
Company: The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company
Hometown: Troy, MI
Current City: Medina, Ohio
About The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company
Goodyear is one of the world’s largest tire companies with an iconic brand and manufacturing operations in most regions of the world. With over 125 years of experience, the company creates leading technologies, products, and services that anticipate the mobility needs of our customers and fleets.
Role at The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company
Erin leads a global team of materials scientists, engineers, and researchers dedicated to developing advanced composite materials that drive tire performance, sustainability, and efficiency across their product portfolio. Goodyear’s innovation extends beyond internal research, testing, and development. They collaborate with research institutes, academia, suppliers, and startups to understand and develop possible new materials and technologies.
Q: What’s a trend in tech/innovation that you think more people should pay attention to?
One major trend in materials science that deserves more attention is the development of sustainable materials for high-performance applications. Alternative raw materials — such as bio-derived elastomers, recycled content, and novel fillers — are transforming product performance without compromising quality. The ability to engineer materials at a molecular level to optimize sustainability, efficiency, and functionality could be a game-changer across sectors, from mobility to consumer goods.
Q: What’s one “moonshot” idea that would help put Ohio on the map as a leading tech hub?
Utilizing our polymer expertise and knowledge to accelerate the development and/or use of sustainable materials, especially with respect to circularity, minimizing the depletion of natural resources, and recapturing materials that would be discarded.
Q: Outside of work, what’s a favorite hobby or activity that you enjoy?
I enjoy all types of Yoga to clear my mind and keep me energized.
Q: If someone were visiting your city, what’s one can’t miss coffee shop or restaurant people should try?
Alien Vacation Mini Golf! My family and I enjoy the quirky glow-in-the-dark experience and course features that keep you guessing.
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Learn more about Erin’s work by connecting with her on LinkedIn.