Hear Ye!

Rich Kontny_5

I have just made one of the most difficult decisions of my life. Due to chronic joint pain and other aches and pains I after 39 years in the field have taken an inside/outside sales position with "United P & H Supply".I will primarily be servicing large mechanical accounts and selling PVFs, regular commodity plumbing products, specialty valves and a new line of instrumentation and high pressure fittings for various fluids such as hydraulic,medical gases, pneumatic etc.

I have struggled with this for over a year as I truly enjoy the firm I was with, their business ethics, the comaraderie I have with fellow tradesmen and the interaction I have enjoyed with engineers, designers, local authorities and customers. I, however jumped at this opportunity because of his firms reputation, integrity and wide variety of products.

I must admit that I used Dan's advice about the "lottery" as a tool to make this decision. I also used a great deal of soul searching and realistic facts. The 39 full years in the field have indeed taken their toll and I want to go out standing up instead of in a wheelchair.I was tested for hearing last week and also have substantial hearing loss in both ears (which can be an asset if you are an empty nester with a wife who has a mile long honey do list)

I will be going full time soon with the new adventure, as I phase out the jobs I have going with Cliff Bergin and Associates. I hope to add more technical advice to this forum as I will be working with some of the most knowledgeable people in the industry. I am the type who really does not look forward to retirement. I believe this move will allow me to continue in the industry as long as I am able to.

I owe so much to this forum and all who post here. This is one of the most important tools we have and it is hard to put a value on the sharing of ideas, expertise and yes scrutiny.

Thanks to all, I am looking forward to sharing any relevant information and receiving continued support.


Rich Kontny

Make Peace our Passion / Support our Troops

Tony_23

Good luck Rich

Geez, something about the "air" here that's causing all the career changes of "Wallies" ?

bob young

BEST OF LUCK,BRO

Weezbo

Wisdom suggests path changes....

you still get the work done and are still part of The Work...the Good Book and our code book says about the same thing in slightly different ways, thing is it makes good sence to do the more rather than the less. You will probably be doing more of one aspect of the work that you were already doing because thats what you were supposed to do *~/:)

Good For You

mtfallsmikey

No shame here!

When I shut down my biz (almost 10 yrs. ago)I felt lost, and betraying my Dad and Granddad, both Dead Men. But I have never looked back, and my skills and knowledge have served me well since then. I probably would have been in a wheelchair by now if I continued.

Rich Kontny_5

Thanks Guys!

Your support is much appreciated. Will keep you posted on my transition. While I will miss the field work I am very excited about this opportunity. I just feel the time is right. I always lean on my faith, family and friends during times like this.Since this is different from some of the lateral moves I have made in the past I struggled with it a little more. I know this is the right move and I am confidant it will cap of my involvement in this great industry.

Thanks again.

Rich K

joel_19

apology?

Sounds like an apology for bailing out at first but don't think like that!!!!! I've been doing this 20 years full time and I can't fathom 20 more 39 years Yikes i'm not even 39 yet!!!

To Learn More About This Professional, Click Here to Visit Their Ad in "Find A Professional"

Mark Hunt_3

Best of luck Rich.


Dan's lottery test was with me from the day I first read it. It is what convinced me that it was time for a change as well.

You are still bringing a great service to the industry, just a different angle.

Peace to you.

Mark H

[Deleted User]

good luck

Rich i wish you the best of luck i personally have enjoy your input on posts and i am sure those in the field that have worked with you shall miss your input i just hope that you don't get bored not being out there in the field and working ,me i'm personally not ready let but i got plenty of good years to go ,again best of luck on your new endever peace and good luck clammy

Bill W@Honeywell

Which United branch will you be working out of?

When you get settled, drop me an email. Best of luck in your new position!

Rich Kontny_5

Branch

This is United P&H Supply from Milwaukee,WI. they are a stand alone niche type wholesaler who promotes domestic products to paper mills,power plants,mechanical contractors,gas, water and electric utilities and manufacturers such as Harley Davidson, Miller Brewery,Bradley Washfountain and others.

We have several sales offices in Wisconsin but only the one stocking warehouse.We do, however do a great deal of direct shipping on large projects.

I am not apologizing as I know this is the right move. I will miss the blue collar banter and intend to stay in touch with the friends I have made while swinging the wrenches.

Rich