The Recycling Education & Research Foundation (RERF) is seeking nominations for the new Peter J. Avagliano Award. Established by Avagliano’s family in his memory, the recipient will receive a complimentary registration to ReMA’s virtual educational events for one year as well as a commemorative award.
The award will be given to an early-to-mid career recycled materials facility employee who best exemplifies the legacy and impact that Peter J. Avagliano had on the recycled materials industry.
The nominee should:
- Demonstrate a commitment to the industry;
- Reflect leadership potential;
- Help everyone around them at the facility, in small and large tasks;
- Be a kind, respectful, and considerate team member; and
- Exhibit a strong, hands-on work ethic.
Avagliano’s career spanned 53 years at the same company—Schiavone-Bonomo Corporation, Jersey City, NJ—which, in 1998, became Hugo Neu Schnitzer East, an affiliation of Hugo Neu Corp and Schnitzer Steel Industries. Avagliano’s extensive experience made him an international figure in the industry, most notably in recycled ferrous exports.
He joined Schiavone-Bonomo in 1950, beginning his career as an office assistant and plant worker. In 1976 he was promoted to Vice President, then became Executive Vice President in 1985. At the end of his career, he was a senior advisor to Hugo Neu Schnitzer East. Avagliano was active in the Institute of Scrap Iron and Steel. He was president of its New Jersey Chapter from 1977 to 1979 as well as National Chair of its foreign trade committee in the late 1970s and early 1980s.
“When my father started at Schiavone-Bonomo, he had no knowledge about the recycled materials industry, so he used every opportunity he could to learn about the company and the industry,” said Joan Avagliano, Peter’s daughter. “In his work, he was always respected for having the highest standards when it came to shipping #1 steel and for understanding the industry, not just in the U.S. but in Japan, Spain, Greece—all the countries where he shipped recycled materials.”
Throughout his career, he knew many leading figures in the industry, including Hugo Neu, whom he referred to as his mentor and one of the finest teachers he ever had.
“Peter’s passing represents the end of an era for Hugo Neu Corp,” said Wendy Kelman Neu, Chairman and CEO of Hugo Neu Corporation. “He was sorely missed by John Neu, my father, and all of us when he became ill but particularly John. He had relied on Peter’s judgment, expertise, and especially his good humor and warmth. He was a real friend you could always rely on, and we cherish every moment we spent with him.”
Avagliano was often quoted as saying, “I have never had a boring day,” referring to the ups and downs of the recycled ferrous industry. He rarely missed a day of work, and at the height of his career spent at least six days a week at the office, perhaps the seventh day checking on the telex machine for a message from Japan until finally technology made that easier.
“This award is for an individual that loves what they do and strives to make a difference for everyone around them,” Joan said. “Let’s not forget those who worked so hard to get us where we are today.”
Please submit nominations online no later than February 28, 2025.
Photo: Peter J. Avagliano and his wife Mary Avagliano. Photo Courtesy of Joan Avagliano.
The Recycling Education & Research Foundation (RERF) is seeking nominations for the new Peter J. Avagliano...