Andy Bales, Class of 1982
From Finneytown to Engineering Excellence
Andy Bales, a proud member of the Finneytown High School Class of 1982, took his love for math and science from the classrooms of Finneytown to the halls of Ohio State University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering. He fondly remembers the Finneytown teachers who nurtured his passion for these subjects, including Mrs. Haas (Geometry), Mr. Reichert (Pre-Algebra), Mr. Rawlings (Algebra), Mr. Powell (Calculus), Mr. Sanders (Chemistry), and Mr. McNeal (Physics). These teachers made a lasting impact on Andy's career by encouraging a deep understanding and genuine enthusiasm for their subjects.
Life at Ohio State
While studying at Ohio State, Andy didn’t just focus on academics. He joined Sigma Chi Fraternity, served as President of his pledge class, and took on the role of Scholarship Chairman. He also played numerous intramural sports and gained valuable professional experience through a co-op position with General Electric in Circleville, Ohio, and an internship with Procter & Gamble (P&G) in Cincinnati. It was through these experiences that Andy learned he loved Mechanical Engineering—even if working in a manufacturing plant wasn’t quite for him.
A Career at Procter & Gamble
After graduation, Andy launched his career at P&G, where he stayed for an impressive 36 years. The first 25 years were spent in Baby Care Engineering and Process Development, and the last several in Personal Care Logistics. Among his many accomplishments, Andy helped “save” Pampers by developing processes and equipment for a better-absorbing diaper in record time after a major product setback. He co-created a revolutionary approach to diaper process and equipment development, led P&G’s Methodology of Process Development, and kept Personal Care plants running smoothly during the COVID pandemic’s logistical challenges.
Finneytown's Lasting Influence
Reflecting on his time at Finneytown, Andy emphasizes how the dedication of his teachers shaped his life and career. Their passion for teaching, their commitment to student success, and their drive to help students understand the world around them left a lasting impression on Andy. “They were exemplary role models,” he says. “Be committed to others, intrinsically enjoy what you do, and understand your world well enough to be competent and thrive.”
Staying Connected to Finneytown
Andy hasn’t forgotten his roots. Over the past 15 months, he’s been actively involved in the Finneytown Alumni Network (FAN) and now serves as its Vice President. He is passionate about giving back to the community that played such an important role in his life.
Life Today
Now retired and living in Anderson, Andy continues to live life to the fullest. His son works as a coder for a start-up, and his daughter is pursuing a Master’s in Mental Health Counseling at Xavier University. Alongside his work with FAN, Andy stays busy volunteering with the STEM Bicycle Club and for political causes. He’s also an avid traveler and hiker, enjoys cycling and pickleball, and is a dedicated soccer fan (Go Arsenal!). One of his passions is sharing the Enneagram personality model, which has had a hugely positive impact on his life, with companies, organizations, and students at Xavier University.
Words of Wisdom
Andy Bales’ story is a reminder of the importance of passionate teaching, community involvement, and lifelong learning. His journey from the classrooms of Finneytown to a successful engineering career and into a fulfilling retirement shows how the seeds planted during high school can grow into a lifetime of success, impact, and joy.
Be Our Next Alumni Spotlight!
We'd love to highlight your journey in our Finneytown Alumni Spotlight! Whether you graduated recently or decades ago, your story can inspire current students and reconnect fellow alumni with our community.
Please take a few minutes to share your story with us. It's a great way to celebrate where you've been and where you're headed—plus, we'd love to show the world what our Wildcats are accomplishing!
