A LIFE OF LEADERSHIP, ENTERPRISE, & SERVICE: ARA CHERCHIAN

Ara Cherchian was born in Tehran, Iran, into a close-knit Armenian family. He was the son of Haroutun Tchertchian and Sirarpi Kehyayan, and grew up alongside his brothers, Armen and Onig Tchertchian. From an early age, Ara was shaped by strong family values, a commitment to education, and a deep sense of cultural identity that would guide him throughout his life.

He later married Valerie A. Cherchian, with whom he built a loving family. Together they raised two sons, Alex and Peter Cherchian, and were blessed with five grandchildren: Zachary, Brittany, Samuel, Victor, and Ivan. Family remained at the center of Ara’s life, grounding his many professional and philanthropic pursuits.

Ara pursued higher education in the United States, earning a degree in Mechanical Engineering from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in 1960. Demonstrating both technical aptitude and a keen interest in business, he continued his studies and obtained a BA in Accounting and Finance from the University of Chicago in 1969. This combination of engineering and financial expertise laid the foundation for a distinguished career in industry and leadership.

He began his professional journey as a Plant Manager at Continental Can, where he worked from 1960 to 1969. His capabilities quickly became evident, leading him to Schlitz Brewing Company, where he served as Vice President and General Manager of the Container Division from 1969 to 1983. Ara continued to expand his leadership experience as Vice President of Operations and Strategic Planning at General Tire and Rubber (1983-1986), followed by Vice President of Strategic Planning at Aqua Chem (1986-1988).

In 1988, Ara took on an entrepreneurial path as President and Owner of Northland Stainless Inc., a role he held until 2007. During this period, he also served as Managing Partner of Northern Wire LIC from 1998 to 2012, further demonstrating his business acumen and strategic vision. Since 1998, he has continued his work as President of Cherchian Investments, overseeing a range of ventures and investments.

Beyond his professional achievements, Ara has been deeply committed to philanthropy, particularly in Armenia. Through his involvement with the Paros Foundation, he has supported numerous impactful initiatives, including the Vanadzor Education Center, the Syunik Beekeeping Project, home construction efforts, the Noyemberyan Art and Community Building, the Akunk Village Medical Center, the Berd Community Center, and the Achajur Kindergarten. These projects reflect his enduring dedication to community development, education, and humanitarian support.

Ara’s charitable contributions extend widely across educational, cultural, medical, and community organizations. He has supported institutions such as the American University of Armenia, Armenia Fund USA, the Armenian General Benevolent Union, and the Armenian Assembly of America. His generosity has also reached organizations like St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra, Hillsdale College, the Milwaukee Public Museum, and numerous Armenian churches and community foundations. Through these efforts, Ara has made a lasting impact on countless lives both in the United States and abroad.

In his personal life, Ara has cultivated a range of interests that reflect both creativity and appreciation for the outdoors. He enjoys lapidary work and mineral collecting, boating and fishing on Lake Michigan, golfing, traveling, and participating in church life. He is also a supporter of the arts, particularly the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra.

Ara Cherchian’s life is a testament to perseverance, leadership, and generosity. From his caly beginnings in Tehran to his achievements in business and philanthropy, he has remained dedicated to building, supporting, and enriching the communities around him. His legacy is defined not only by professional success but by a profound commitment to family, culture, and service.