CHICAGO – From October 21st to 24th, 2024, industry leaders, innovators, and collaborators gathered at the Hyatt Regency Chicago for the highly anticipated 2024 Industrial & Safety – U.S., Mexico and Safety Network Divisions’ North American Meeting. This premier event brought together 998 members, suppliers and service providers to explore growth opportunities, share best practices, and honor outstanding achievements.
Marisol Fernandez, President of AD’s Electrical & Industrial Business Unit commented on the meeting, “The 2024 AD North American Meeting showcases the power of collaboration and innovation across our countries and divisions. It’s incredible to see so many attendees come together to share insights, celebrate achievements, and shape the future of our industry.”
This year’s meeting was particularly notable for recognizing the entrepreneurial excellence and commitment to progress embodied by AD members and suppliers. The Spirit of Independence Awards Dinner, held on October 22nd, celebrated the “Best of the Best” with accolades that spotlight the innovators and trailblazers within the AD community.
Mike Carr, President of AD’s Industrial & Safety Divisions remarked, “This event is a testament to the entrepreneurial spirit that drives our community. From recognizing outstanding accomplishments to fostering valuable connections, the energy and enthusiasm here are unmatched. Together, we are building a stronger, more dynamic future for everyone involved.”
2024 Award Highlights
Centennial Club Awards: Honoring over 100 years of success, Carter, Milchman & Frank Inc. and Mars Supply received this prestigious recognition.
Best Workplace Awards: Superior Glove Works Ltd., Safety Products Inc., and Levitt-Safety Ltd. were celebrated for fostering environments where employees thrive.
Industrial & Safety – U.S. and Safety Network Annual Planning Excellence Awards: AHB Tooling & Machinery and Saf-T-Gard International exemplified outstanding planning processes.
Member of the Year Awards:
- ISD Tier 1: P&I Supply
- ISD Tier 2: Industrial Supply Company (Terre Haute, IN)
- Safety Network Tier 1: Stauffer Glove & Safety
- Safety Network Tier 2: Safety Services Inc.
Supplier of the Year Awards:
- ISD Tier 1: Brady Corporation
- ISD Tier 2: SureWerx
- Safety Network Tier 1: Superior Glove Works
- Safety Network Tier 2: Black Stallion
Service Provider Excellence Award: Rivet MRO was recognized for going above and beyond in contract compliance, marketing engagement, reported sales, and member participation.
Giving Back Award: Replenex Inc. earned this award for its impactful community initiatives.
Special individual honors included MVP Awards, presented to Darla Smith (Campbell Supply Company) and Amy Underwood (Scientific Sales), whose leadership and innovation were pivotal in driving network success.
Building Momentum for the Future
The meeting also emphasized collaboration and knowledge-sharing through conference booth appointments, strategic partner briefings hosted by sponsors, functional roundtables, and executive network meetings. Bill Weisberg, AD’s Chairman and CEO, inspired attendees with insights on AD’s transformative role in supporting independent distributors and fostering industry growth.
AD extends heartfelt congratulations to all award recipients and gratitude to every attendee and sponsor who contributed to making the 2024 AD North American Meeting a success. Together, we continue to shape the future of the industrial and safety channels.
Meanwhile, the 2024 AD North American Meeting for the Electrical Division, held October 28-30, concluded with resounding success at the Hyatt Regency Downtown in Chicago. Reaching 1,120 attendees, industry leaders from across the United States, Canada, and Mexico gathered to engage in dynamic discussions, strategic planning, and a celebration of the entrepreneurial spirit that drives the electrical distribution industry forward. 94 new members and suppliers were warmly welcomed from the Electronics, Low Voltage, Data & Security industry to their first AD meeting.
A highlight of the event was the Spirit of Independence Awards Dinner, where the achievements of outstanding members and suppliers were recognized. This year’s awards spotlighted individuals and organizations whose innovation, dedication, and commitment to excellence exemplify the values of AD. Notable honorees included Schaedler Yesco and Cuny & Guerber for being welcomed into the prestigious Centennial Club, and Hubbell Corp., which was named the 2024 AD Electrical North American Supplier of the Year.
Special recognition also went to Eckart as U.S. Member of the Year, O’Neil Electric Supply Ltd. as Canada Member of the Year, and Alianza Electrica as Mexico Member of the Year. Green Mountain Electric and Cooper Lighting Solutions partnered together to win the Best Conversion to an AD Supplier Award. Nine Best Workplace Recognitions were distributed to Atkore; Electric Supply & Equipment Co.; Leviton Canada; Hubbell Canada; IEWC; nVent; Bell Electrical Supply; Risoul; and Bricos.
Other standout honors included the 2024 AD Electrical Best Marketing Planning & Execution Award, presented to Bartle & Gibson and Leviton Canada, and the 2024 AD Giving Back Award, given to Encore Wire Corp. for their extraordinary contributions to their local community.
AD’s divisional leadership expressed their admiration for the winners and their impact on the industry.
Karen Baker, AD’s Independent Electrical Supply Division (IESD) President shared,
“This year’s award winners have set a new benchmark for excellence in our industry. Their commitment to innovation and collaboration truly embodies the AD spirit and culture. They inspire us all to aim higher.”
Juan Carlos, Vice President of AD Mexico added, “We take immense pride in celebrating the achievements of our Mexico Member of the Year, Alianza Electrica. Their ability to lead with ingenuity and resilience is a testament to the strength of our membership.”
Kristen Yong, Vice President of AD Canada highlighted the significance of the Canadian award recipients. “Canada continues to be a driving force within the AD community, and the accomplishments of O’Neil Electric Supply Ltd. and our other Canadian winners reflect our shared vision for growth, partnership, and success.”
As the meeting adjourned, attendees departed energized and equipped to drive the electrical industry toward new heights in 2025. This year’s celebration of collaboration, innovation, and excellence underscored the unique power of AD to bring members, suppliers, and service providers together for lasting success.
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