Tectum Inc. makes panels that can stand up to the punishment and absorb sound. They're built using a process that has had few changes since the business began in 1949.

Tectum has about 90 employees and about $20 million in annual sales. It has been in Newark since its founding in 1949. Armstrong World makes panels for use in ceilings and walls, for use by in ...

Tectum has done more than survive, despite fires, tornadoes, worker strikes and ownership changes. It has thrived in relative obscurity for 75 years on South Sixth Street in Newark.