This month's industry profile is focused on Kevin R. Neupert, Director of Purchasing for Consolidated Supply Co. in Portland, OR. Kevin, son of the late Karl E. Neupert, follows in his father's footsteps at the 75 year-old firm that operates out of 16 locations in Oregon, Washington, Idaho and Hawaii. Consolidated's product mix includes 60% plumbing, 35% waterworks and 5% heating.

Kevin himself has been in the business for 12 years, having started, like many in his generation, from the bottom up. He worked his way up from "broom duty" through the ranks in shipping & receiving, to picking orders, driving a truck, and various inside and outside sales positions. He and his wife, Alishea, have two young daughters, Nichole and Molly.

As Chairman of the Young Executives Division this year, Kevin also serves as a delegate on the ASA Board of Directors, and as a Trustee of the ASA Education Foundation. When asked why he gives so much of his time to ASA, Kevin responds: "It's been a long-standing tradition at Consolidated that our leadership participates in industry associations. I'm proud to be involved with ASA, carrying forward that tradition. Both my grandfather, and most recently my father, felt very strongly about giving back to an industry that's been our family's profession and passion for the past 75 years.

"Forging relationships across the country has given our company invaluable insight toward solving challenges that we face every day. Building on these bonds and working together with fellow wholesalers can help improve our channel and keep it strong. Participating in ASA is fundamental for our channel's future success and that of Consolidated Supply Co."