SIDNEY, Ohio – FDL Automation & Supply Company, an electrical distributor serving west central Ohio, announces that Richard (Rick) Brooks, company Executive Vice President and co-owner, has retired effective September 30. Brooks, 61, has been with FDL Automation, and the former F.D. Lawrence Electric Company, in various sales and management capacities for over 31 years.
After attending Wright State University, Brooks began his 40-year career in electrical distribution at Martin Electric in Dayton, working in insides sales and purchasing for six years. He then served as a sales engineer assistant at General Electric prior to joining the F.D. Lawrence inside sales and purchasing team in 1982. Brooks was named account manager two years later, a role he held for over 20 years. He was named Allen-Bradley salesman of the year, Cincinnati district, in 1994. In 2003, Brooks became vice president of operations after he and two other company officials purchased the F.D. Lawrence Electric Sidney branch, rebranding the company FDL Automation & Supply. He assumed his current role as Executive Vice President after Doug Christie, former company president, retired in 2009.
“I knew early on in my career that the Electrical Distribution business was right for me and am very appreciative of my customers, suppliers and work associates support. I have been blessed at FDL to be a part of the finest group of people you could ever meet and I will miss them,” said Brooks.
Brooks and his wife of 33 years, Genny, reside in Troy and have two children and two grandchildren. Aside from his family and faith, life outside of FDL has always included travel, music, cars, racing, history and antiques. In retirement, he plans on expanding on all of those – and adding a few more – including continuing education and genealogy. One to believe it’s never too late – Brooks also plans on beginning a more active fitness lifestyle. He will treat retirement as he has learned from his parents, who have been retired 25 years.
Brooks will remain active in civic and community organizations, including S&H Products, United Way and Special Olympics.
“Rick has been more than just a business partner; he has been a coach, mentor, confidant and a great friend,” said Gary Heitmeyer, FDL president and co-owner. “We accomplished many things together that would not have been possible without Rick’s integrity, leadership and professional guidance. I wish him and Genny nothing but the best as they transition to the next phase and exciting time in their lives.” Upon Brooks’ retirement, Heitmeyer will assume sole ownership of the company.
About FDL Automation & Supply Company
FDL Automation & Supply is a locally owned electrical distributor serving west central Ohio, selling electrical equipment to the contractor, original equipment manufacturer, and the industrial market. Since 1981, customers have received a remarkable level of individualized service from FDL’s experienced and trained staff. FDL carries an impressive line of electrical and automation suppliers. In addition, FDL offers 24-hour emergency service, technical support, delivery, e-commerce, asset management, and training services. FDL is a member of Affiliated Distributors and the National Association of Electrical Distributors. Visit www.fdlautomation.com for additional information.