The 1970s were marked by a continual rise in Japanese manufacturing. The resulting economic boost across the Pacific posed a perceived threat to American manufacturing, and in turn, fueled a strong “buy American” sentiment among some in the United States.
A certified public accountant at the time, Rod Lanthorne chose in 1979 to not only rise above the groupthink, but to embrace the business model and culture of one of his Japan-based clients.
After rising through the ranks under the umbrella of Kyocera Corp. to eventually become head of the company's San Diego-based North American holding company, Kyocera International, Lanthorne looks ahead to retirement, while also looking back at the things Kyocera did for the many industries it serves -- and for himself — as he helped lead its spread across the states.