The president and part owner of Performance Systematix Inc. is Karlis Mateus, Hillsdale College 1981 graduate.  This psychology major has achieved success in the business world thanks to the support and life lessons he learned while at Hillsdale.

While his business may be technical—PSI integrates hydrophobic, microporous membranes into plastic components used in biotech and laboratory analysis products, medical filters and packaging applications—Karlis attributes a simple set of principles to his success, principles demonstrated during his recruitment and tenure at Hillsdale. 

When Karlis was a junior in high school, he was recruited to play football at a number of colleges, including several Big 10 schools.  The scholarship offers made it possible for his immigrant parents to afford their son’s education.  

A year later, Karlis was injured and all the colleges except Hillsdale withdrew their offers.  Hillsdale's head football coach, Jack McAvoy, came to the Mateus home to reassure the family that the school believed in Karlis as a person and a student.  That visit made a lasting impression and was indicative of the loyalty Hillsdale College showed Karlis over the next four years.  He played football at Hillsdale, but was sidelined with an injury.  His scholarship never took a hit.

“Hillsdale took a risk in recruiting me and showed that they believed in me,” Karlis said.  “They stuck by me, and I’m forever grateful for the education they gave me and for what Hillsdale stands for: integrity, honor, commitment and courage.”

After graduation, Karlis returned to his hometown of Grand Rapids, Michigan, to work at Steelcase, the global leader in office furniture.  After 16 years, he took a chance and left the company—and his prestigious title of vice president of sales for a Steelcase subsidiary—to join PSI, then a small manufacturing company.

While PSI may not be a common household name, the company’s patented Circumvent® and Airfoil® vented liner systems provide leak-proof seals for many common household items such as bleach, accelerated hydrogen peroxide, laundry detergents and garden fertilizers.

The company has consistently attained very healthy growth rates ranging from 15 to 20 percent for the past eight years.  Privately held, PSI reinvests its profits in its people, technology, machinery and infrastructure.

Karlis Mateus supports Hillsdale College with his donations and as a speaker and supporter.  He participated in Hillsdale’s Executive Speakers Program in the fall of 2006.  Karlis also actively works with the Hillsdale College football coaches, as well as with middle and high school football players and coaches in his hometown, in hopes that others will benefit from what he has gained—a deep appreciation for Hillsdale College.

Featured Corporate Partner
Performance Systematix Inc.
Grand Rapids, MI
616-949-9090