On May 31^st, Paul ‘Captain Grout’ Layman officially announced his retirement from the chemical grouting industry. As those in this  industry well-know, there are few people with as much technical and field experience as Captain Grout, and even fewer with personalities as large. 

Paul put himself through college as a concrete finisher and graduated from Andrews University in 1970. He then taught Physical Education and Math at the High School level, as well as being a Jr. High School Principal throughout the 70’s.

Paul began working in Construction sales in the late 70’s with L&M Construction Chemicals, and then joined Dayton Superior, becoming their floor and grout specialist, which led to him being known as “Captain Grout”. In 2005 he joined DeNeef as their Western Regional Manager, covering the western United States and Canada. After DeNeef was purchased by W.R.Grace Paul left DeNeef to join Resiplast U.S., which later merged with Alchemy Polymers to form Alchemy-Spetec. For the last couple of years, Paul has been a member of the Alchemy-Spetec team as the Pacific Northwest Manufacturer Representative. 

Throughout the years Paul was privileged to work with many of the most competent professionals in tunneling, mining, and dam repair. He travelled extensively and got to indulge his love of flying his own airplanes for several years during the week and sailing most weekends. Now, at age 71, he says it is time to go home to Maine and spend much needed time with his two grandsons, be able to travel with his wife, and to just enjoy his family and his friends. He also plans on lending a helping hand to his old alma mater, Pine Tree Academy in Maine, teaching some of the skills he has learned along the way to the next generation of concrete finishers and chemical grouters, maybe even sales people. As Paul says, it is time to give back.  

In honor and appreciation of Paul’s 40 years in the concrete repair ad chemical grouting industry, Alchemy-Spetec is proud to announce Paul ‘Captain Grout’ Layman as the first recipient of their Lifetime Achievement Award honoring individuals who have exhibited exemplary dedication to, and advancement of, the chemical grouting industry. These award winners will also be recognized as lifetime technical advisers to the Alchemy-Spetec product line. 

Those who know Captain Grout well, recognize his signature cap and love for airplanes and boats. The entire Alchemy-Spetec Team, as well as the chemical grouting industry tip our caps to you, Captain Grout, as you sail off into the sunset of retirement.