Association for Materials Protection and Performance announced the passing of George F. Hays, a respected leader in the global corrosion community and a past president of NACE International. Hays passed away Jan. 4 at his home in Rockaway, New Jersey, at the age of 87.

Hays dedicated more than four decades to advancing corrosion control, materials performance and industrial water and waste system technologies. His professional career included more than 30 years with Ashland Specialty Chemical Company, where he served in international roles as technology manager focused on monitoring and control technologies. After retiring in 1999, he continued contributing to the field as a consultant.

AMPP

Within the professional community, Hays was known for his leadership and service. He served as president of NACE International from 2004 to 2005, a period during which the organization expanded member access to technical standards.

Hays also played a significant role on the global stage as a co-founder of the World Corrosion Organization and served as its director-general from 2006 until March 2016. In that role, he represented corrosion prevention interests to international bodies and professional societies worldwide.

In addition to his technical career, Hays was an accredited professional mediator. Together with his wife, Beverly, he established Hays Mediation Service and supported mediation efforts beyond the corrosion field.

AMPP extended condolences to Beverly Hays, their family and colleagues across the corrosion and materials performance community.

This remembrance reflects the lasting impact of leadership within the Corrosion-Control Coatings community and the broader paint and coatings industry.