AD announces industrial, safety award winners
Industry leaders, innovators, and collaborators gathered October 21–24 at the Hyatt Regency Chicago for AD's 2024 Industrial & Safety – U.S., Mexico and Safety Network Divisions’ North American Meeting.
The 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 said, “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 recognized the entrepreneurial excellence and commitment to progress embodied by AD members and suppliers. The Spirit of Independence Awards Dinner, held on October 22, celebrated the “Best of the Best” with accolades that spotlight the innovators and trailblazers within the AD community.
“This event is a testament to the entrepreneurial spirit that drives our community," said Mike Carr, president of AD’s industrial and safety divisions. "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 their 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’ chairman and CEO, inspired attendees with insights on AD’s transformative role in supporting independent distributors and fostering industry growth.
INDUSTRIAL SUPPLY MAGAZINE
The November/December issue of Industrial Supply magazine features an in-depth cover story about Kimball Midwest. Plus, we're featuring articles by contributing writers Dirk Beveridge, Frank Hurtte, and Mike Marks, as well as interviews with numerous product and distribution industry experts.
