People in the News

Airzone Control, provider of intelligent and innovative HVAC control solutions, has announced the appointment of Cameron Davis as the new Regional Sales Manager for the West Territory. This strategic hire underscores the company’s dedication to bolstering its market presence and enhancing personalized customer support throughout the western United States.

Cameron Davis brings a robust background in HVAC sales, underscored by his impactful tenures at D-Techsales and Fieldpiece Inc., where he excelled in regional sales management roles. At D-Techsales in San Juan Capistrano, CA, Cameron led sales efforts across multiple states, achieving a 65% increase in business within his first year by providing tailored support to HVAC contractors and wholesalers. At Fieldpiece Inc., Cameron managed a network of 54 sales representatives nationwide. His strategic initiatives and hands-on customer engagement contributed to sustained revenue growth and enhanced client satisfaction across the board.

As Airzone’s Regional Sales Manager for the West Territory, Cameron will direct sales strategies, optimize team performance, and cultivate enduring relationships with HVAC dealers in the region. His approach will focus on high-touch, in-person engagements, ensuring that Airzone’s solutions are perfectly aligned with customer needs.

Victoria Garcia Massimo, Operations Manager for Airzone North America, remarked, “Cameron’s profound expertise in the HVAC sector and his track record of transformative sales leadership are exactly what Airzone needs as we expand our solution portfolio in North America. His ability to connect with clients and drive results through customized solutions will accelerate our mission of empowering dealers to offer smarter, more efficient HVAC solutions.”

“I am excited to bring my passion for the HVAC industry and personalized customer service to Airzone,” Cameron Davis stated. “I am committed to deepening our client relationships through direct interactions, helping them navigate new refrigeration regulation challenges and seize sustainability incentive opportunities with our innovative products.”

Learn more about Airzone at airzonecontrol.com.

The award is given to a manufacturer’s representative who exemplifies the legacy and winning spirit of the late Bob Bender, a trailblazing member of the Oatey sales organization for more than 40 years.

Oatey Co., a leading manufacturer in the plumbing industry since 1916, proudly announces Rick Portt, owner of New Century Sales, as the third annual winner of the Bob Bender Legacy Award. This recognition highlights Portt’s exceptional dedication to his customers, unwavering commitment to the Oatey brand, and outstanding contributions to the plumbing industry.

The award is named in honor of the late Bob Bender, a 42-year veteran sales leader at Oatey, known for his larger-than-life personality, customer-centric approach, and passion for building enduring relationships. The award celebrates individuals who embody Bender’s spirit by prioritizing customer satisfaction, fostering strong connections, and demonstrating a genuine commitment to the values upheld by Oatey Co.

“Rick Portt exemplifies the essence of the Bob Bender Legacy Award. His unwavering dedication to his customers, combined with his commitment to the Oatey brand, makes him a truly deserving recipient,” says Christen Allen, Director of National Sales – Rough Plumbing at Oatey Co. “Rick’s genuine passion for his work and his relentless pursuit of excellence serve as a shining example for the entire industry.”

Founded in 1997, New Century Sales has been a cornerstone in the plumbing industry for over three decades. Under Portt’s leadership, the company has continuously upheld the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, and customer service. Portt’s enduring commitment to Oatey Co. is reflected in his steadfast advocacy for the brand, his relentless pursuit of customer satisfaction, and his unwavering support of the plumbing community.

Portt’s dedication to his craft is underscored by his adherence to three guiding principles: build relationships, secure orders, and the motto “have fun; it’s just plumbing.” These principles have been instrumental in shaping his approach to business and have earned him the respect and admiration of his peers and customers alike.

In recognition of his outstanding contributions, Portt was presented with the Bob Bender Legacy Award at a ceremony held in Detroit, Michigan. Surrounded by colleagues, customers, and members of the Oatey team, Portt graciously accepted the award, thanking those who have supported him throughout his career.

“I consider myself fortunate to have worked alongside Bob for many years,” says Portt. “The first time I had the opportunity to interact with him was during a competition he had organized called ‘Create A Vacation.’ At that time, I was new to Reliant Sales and halfway through the contest, Bob took the time to reach out to me because we had never met.”

“His thoughtfulness and support motivated me to work even harder, and I ended up winning the contest,” he explains. “Bob’s commitment to Oatey and everyone he worked with was truly inspiring. Whenever Bob’s name is mentioned, it is always accompanied by a smile and a fond memory. It is indeed an honor for me to have my name associated with Bob’s legacy.”

Portt’s name was added to the Bob Bender Legacy Cup, which commemorates the list of winners, alongside Chase Freeman of Spirit Group, who won the inaugural award in 2022, and Skipper Joyce, founder of The Joyce Agency and winner of the second annual award in 2023.

Watts Water Technologies, Inc. shared news of the passing of Donald Mullett, former Chief Executive Officer of Bradley Company.

Mr. Mullett passed away peacefully at his home in Wisconsin today, April 8, surrounded by his family.

Robert J. Pagano, Jr., Watts Water Technologies Chief Executive Officer, President, and Chairperson of the Board, issued the following statement:

“As we recognize the loss of an industry pioneer, this is a time to reflect on his dedication to family, the great accomplishments of his career and the many philanthropic endeavors he had supported throughout his life. Five generations of Mullett family leadership, and more than 100 years of growth, are a testament to their legacy. Mr. Mullett was a leader, friend and mentor to many, and a remembrance of his inspiration can bring strength to those who mourn his passing.”

Bradley Company was acquired by Watts Water Technologies, Inc., a global leader in the plumbing, heating and water quality industries, in October 2023.

Donald Mullett Remembered

Mr. Mullett was a visionary in the manufacturing industry, with his career at Bradley Company spanning 55 years. He began serving as Chief Executive Officer in 1980, assuming the role from his father, Howard G. Mullett.

Under his direction, the company achieved consistent growth, expanding its reach to serve customers worldwide. In addition to overseeing the development of cutting-edge washroom equipment like touchless handwashing fixtures, metering valves, washbasins and showers, he also extended Bradley’s portfolio to include the emergency and safety fixtures market. His mantra was innovating the most durable, high-quality solutions while treating employees and customers like family.

While being a champion of innovation, corporate social responsibility and environmental stewardship, his commitment to sustainability directly resulted in the development of countless water and energy-saving technologies that Bradley is renowned for.

Mr. Mullett served as Chairman of the Board for 27 years and became Vice Chairman after appointing Bryan Mullett, his oldest son, as Chairman in 2020. His philanthropic efforts also strengthened the surrounding Bradley Company community including a deep commitment to education. For more information about his life, go to Don Mullett – Bradley Corp.

He leaves behind his wife of 55 years, Barbara, and their three sons, Bryan, Erik and Christopher, along with their families. He was 81.

Richard Medairos, P.E., Taco Senior Systems Engineer and Commercial Trainer, was presented the Dan Holohan Lifetime Contribution to Comfort Award at Taco Comfort Solutions’ press conference at the AHR Expo on Monday, January 22, by Ben White, Program Manager, Business Operations of Taco Comfort Solutions.

Richard Medairos, P.E., Taco Senior Systems Engineer and Commercial Trainer, is presented the Dan Holohan Lifetime Contribution to Comfort Award at Taco Comfort Solutions’ press conference at the AHR Expo on Monday, January 22, by Ben White, Program Manager, Business Operations of Taco Comfort Solutions.

Medairos is the 8th recipient of the award, and is recognized for his warmth, humor and passion that he brings with him to work every day.  Much like Dan Holohan, Rich’s passion and love of the industry is what has driven, and continues to drive, his dedication to educate and train hundreds of industry professionals moving forward.

A graduate of Wentworth Institute of Technology, Medairos has over forty years of experience with demonstrated expertise in engineering, project management and planning. Throughout his career, he has worked on projects with major clients such as NASA’s Kennedy Space Center, Disney World, Universal Studios Florida, Boston University, Rhode Island School of Design, First Data Corporation, and Taco’s Innovation & Development Center.

The Dan Holohan Lifetime Contribution to Comfort Award is given annually to an HVAC professional or company that has made a substantial contribution to comfort technology, advancement, or training while displaying the exceptional good humor and love of people exhibited by Dan Holohan throughout his long career.  Past award winners include Dan Holohan, Robert Bean, Bruce Marshall, Dan Foley, John Barba, Bob Barbour and John Hazen White III.