About us

Our Story

Urethane Source was founded in 2012 by Vanessa (Smith) Hoppel to carry on the family trade of manufacturing molded polyurethane products into a 3rd generation.

Together with her father, Jim Smith Sr, they wish to link over 40 years of industry experience with their customers’ needs. By combining knowledge or urethane production with the vast availability of versatile polyurethane compounds, we can accommodate your specific needs with the products we offer.

Who are we?

Vanessa Hoppel
Owner

Vanessa has lived in Phoenix, AZ for most of her life but is originally from the Chicago area. She brings a broad range of business experience having worked from small startups to Fortune 500 companies. She holds her Bachelor’s in Fine Arts and Master’s in Business Management. Before starting the company, Vanessa juggled her time between work and  cheerleader for the Arizona Cardinals. When the idea of starting a business presented itself, Vanessa jumped at the chance! Family has always been a priority in her life and having the opportunity to work with and learn from her dad was an exciting new challenge. You could say she is already grooming the next generation to step in, as she is rarely in the office without her two little ones by her side. 

Jim Smith Sr.
Director of Production Engineering

Jim was born in the Chicago area and started in the urethane field as a teenager. His introduction to urethane production was working in the family business his father created. After relocating to Arizona in the late 80’s, he continued developing his career as he explored new and challenging opportunities outside the established family business. Jim started missing the dynamic of working with family and began brainstorming new ventures. In hopes to pass down his depth of knowledge, he approached Vanessa with the idea of starting a business. 

The experience Jim brings to Urethane Source is from many decades in operations, production, and problem solving in the cast urethane industry.

Next Steps ....

Not sure if we can create what you have in mind?

Send us an inquiry with your ideas or specifications and we can discuss how to make your project possible.