Ling Hao, Ph.D., is a Master Surface Finisher (MSF) and Principal Scientist in the Advanced Technology Group at Lacks Enterprises in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
Dr. Hao is also an NASF Fellow and is on the AESF Foundation Board of Trustees, and is also on the NASF Sur/Fin Technical Advisory Committee.
How did you get your start in the finishing industry?
Jim Sutherland, a zinc plating guru and Technical Manager of Acadian Platers in Toronto, advised me to join this industry after my graduation from the University of Western Ontario. He promised that I would never get bored, have tremendous fun, would find my knowledge, experience, and skills useful and valuable, and would end my career in a bright finish.
What do you enjoy best about the industry?
It’s a good question. Contrary to many people’s perception, I see the surface finishing industry as one that helps make the modern world functional, decorative, and beautiful. This is the best part I enjoy about the industry.
Who is your hero?
Of course, Superman. He is capable of doing everything, from helping people to saving the world.
If you could live anywhere, where would it be?
A place that affords a self-sufficient and sustainable life.
What is your biggest fear?
U.S. democracy becomes bankrupt.
What is your favorite family vacation?
Visits to historical heritages, natural wonderlands, and animal kingdoms.
What would you change about yourself if you could?
I become an astronaut to travel in the universe and plate PVD coatings with an open space on the moon. You know a highly vacuumed chamber is required to make PVD coatings on the earth.
What really makes you angry?
Fake news. Biased media is destroying this great country.
What motivates you to work hard?
Dreams to catch up with smart people inspire me to work hard.
What is your favorite thing about your career?
Develop innovative technologies and products to make the world and human society better in the future.
What is your biggest complaint about your job?
Not enough time.
What is your proudest accomplishment?
The invention of Lack’s Spinelle Metal Finish technology that has not been matched by any other competitor in the world yet to date.
What is your favorite book?
Wikipedia. It is a reliable, gigantic, free online book. I know it’s not a traditional chapter book with specific authors, but it is a very valuable tool for anyone to learn and use. Anyone can contribute to it as well if he or she desires.
What makes you laugh the most?
I laughed so hard when a six years old boy asked me, “Why you’re so stupid?” He was politely speaking the truth.
What was the last movie you went to?
Fifty Shades of Grey, with permission from my wife. I was amazed that Hollywood people are willing to play tricks with the surface finishing on their own bodies to grab the Oscar statues made by the people they accuse of polluting.
What did you want to be when you were small?
A magician who makes something out of nothing.
If you could choose to do anything for a day, what would it be?
Reading. It’s my belief that others are smarter than me.
What is your favorite game or sport to watch and play?
I enjoy swimming, which is also a surviving skill. I don’t have wings. Otherwise, I would like to fly freely in the sky.
Would you rather ride a bike, ride a horse, or drive a car?
A bike will be my choice. Having fun and doing gym as well as going to places, a 3-in-1 activity.
What would you sing at Karaoke night?
That’s something I’m reluctant to do because the audience will quickly evacuate from the room because of my alien’s voice.
What would be your last meal?
I never thought about that. Tim, you encourage me to work for it. No matter what’s on my last plate, it must be delicious, precious, and hilarious. Once I eat it, I’m stuffed and never feel hungry again.
Who is your favorite author?
A morning photo taken by Ling Hao outside the Lacks Enterprise offices.Mark Twain, a never-forgotten author. Please allow me to have a quote from him here: “The best way to cheer yourself up is to cheer somebody else up.”
Have you ever had a nickname? What is it?
Yeah, my wife gave me one: Stubborn.
Do you like or dislike surprises?
I like surprises. No surprise, no life!
In the evening, would you rather play a game, visit a relative, watch a movie, or read?
I enjoy watching a movie in the evening. That makes me fall asleep fast.
Would you rather win the lottery or work at the perfect job? And why?
I would rather win the big lottery because that may help me create some perfect jobs for others.
Who would you want to be stranded with on a deserted island?
God, who would take me to the destination.
