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When Wilson Teachey first walked into the Southern Wholesalers Association (SWA), the southern regional division of the American Supply Association (ASA), meeting three decades ago, he didn't expect to feel like family. As a young professional working in the warehouse of Hubbard Pipe and Supply — at the time, while dating the owner's daughter — he was just learning the ropes. Yet what he found entering the wholesale industry's tight-knit relationships left a lasting impression.

Today, Teachey serves as president of SWA while leading Hubbard Supply House, the third-generation business headquartered in Fayetteville, N.C. His career reflects a deep belief in service, growth, and building relationships that last.

Building a foundation in relationships

Teachey's introduction to the business was hands-on. He spent his early days unloading trucks, checking in materials, and shadowing delivery drivers. "I learned the importance of relationships with drivers, warehouse staff, and customers," he recalls. "Those interactions were where trust was built, and trust is what keeps this industry strong."

That focus on relationships continues to anchor his philosophy. Teachey believes success in wholesale distribution doesn't come from a catalog or a contract, but from people who take care of one another. "The products are important, but at the end of the day, it's the people who make the difference," he says.

The value of connection 

ASA and its regional divisions have long played a central role in connecting wholesalers, manufacturers, and reps across the country. With Teachey's leadership at SWA, the division continues to grow programs that combine technical education with community-building in the southeast.

Terry Shafer, SWA's executive vice president, credits Teachey with helping to amplify this momentum. "Wilson is truly a student of leadership. He's driven, focused, creative, and humble all at once," Shafer says. "He's a true team player—always working with others to find the best way forward. On top of that, he brings a great sense of humor, genuine compassion, and a steady faith that guides the way he treats people. Honestly, Wilson is the kind of 'solid object' you can count on day in and day out."

That steady leadership has guided SWA during a period of record growth. The 97th Annual Convention this past June drew 1,244 attendees — the largest in the association's history. "SWA is in a dynamic season," Shafer notes. "A lot of our momentum comes from the work of our councils, and with our centennial celebration just a few years away, we're already gearing up for a grand celebration of not just SWA but our industry at large."

Christy Maloney, vice president of Texas-based Coburn Supply, echoes that perspective. "Wilson exemplifies a legacy of leadership with over three decades at Hubbard Pipe and Supply. As their President since 1995, he has navigated the company through many market changes, building a strong reputation within the industry. Under Wilson's leadership as SWA President, the association continues its mission of industry-benefiting programs and fostering effective communication between wholesalers and suppliers."

Maloney also points to the councils as proof of SWA's value. "Our sector faces both challenges and opportunities with rapid technological changes and shifting customer demands. But through councils like these, SWA is committed to helping members find solutions together."

Leading by example

For Teachey, leadership has always been more about actions than titles. "Actions speak louder than words," he says. His guiding philosophy is simple: model the behavior you want to see in others.

He often compares volunteer leadership to mission work. "You set out to serve others, but the experience leaves you richer than when you started," he explains. "Serving through SWA has given me more than I could ever give back."

That humility carries into his role at Hubbard. "The board is full of leaders with strengths I admire. My role is to listen, learn, and bring people together."

Hubbard Supply House: Growth with purpose

Hubbard Pipe and Supply, founded in 1972, has transformed into Hubbard Supply House, reflecting its expanded product lines and modern business model.

In 2016, the company implemented the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) to create long-term vision and structure. This strategic framework has supported significant growth and diversification.

• Lighting expansion: Hubbard acquired LightStyles in 2021, strengthening its position in residential and commercial lighting.
• Appliances launch: The company is preparing to add appliances to its remodeled showrooms, further broadening its customer offering.
• E-commerce and digital upgrades: Customers can now place orders, make payments, and manage accounts online — a significant step in a traditionally face-to-face business.
• Training and development: Recognizing the loss of institutional knowledge during COVID, Hubbard has built an HR team dedicated to onboarding, sales training, and process development.

Today, Hubbard employs more than 200 people, with a goal of reaching 240 by the end of 2025. The company is also bringing in the next generation: Teachey's son, Will, recently joined the business, and his daughter, Mary Grace, is completing a 90-day departmental rotation.

"The family legacy matters," Teachey says. "But what matters even more is that we continue to create a company that provides opportunity for all of our employees to thrive."

Facing industry challenges

Like many independents, Hubbard Supply House is navigating a rapidly changing market. Consolidation and M&A activity continue to reshape the competitive landscape. Big-box retailers and online giants are raising customer expectations for convenience and pricing. And the workforce pipeline is strained as experienced professionals retire.

Teachey sees both challenge and opportunity in these trends. "When independents come together through associations and buying groups, we're stronger," he says. "Our advantage has always been in relationships and service — that doesn't go away."

On technology, he stresses the importance of balance. "We need to meet customers where they are. That means investing in digital tools, but without losing the personal service that makes us who we are."

Workforce development may be the most pressing issue. "We have to find ways to attract young people to the industry and then give them the training they need to succeed. If we don't, we risk losing decades of knowledge."

Advice to the next generation

For young professionals considering wholesale distribution, Teachey offers simple but profound advice: patience. "Growth takes time. It's like planting a seed — you don't see it right away, but eventually it matures into something strong."

He emphasizes that distribution isn't just a job, but a career path that can sustain families for generations. "This industry has given me the opportunity to provide for my family, to grow as a leader, and to build relationships that last a lifetime. I want young people to know: there's a future here."

Looking ahead

As president of SWA and leader of Hubbard Supply House, Teachey remains focused on preserving the family-oriented culture that first drew him in. "This industry has given me so much," he says. "My goal is to make sure it continues to be a rewarding, sustainable path for the next generation."

Shafer and Maloney agree that Teachey's steady leadership is leaving a mark. "Wilson is the kind of 'solid object' you can count on day in and day out," Shafer says. Maloney adds, "Under Wilson's leadership, SWA is strengthening the connections that make our industry resilient — and preparing the next generation to lead."

With Hubbard Supply House expanding, SWA approaching its 100th anniversary, and the next generation stepping into leadership, Teachey's legacy is still being written. What's clear is that his commitment to people, relationships and steady growth continues to shape both his company and the industry he serves.