Supply House Times Editorial Staff

Given annually, the award honors a manufacturer representative who goes above and beyond for customers, builds meaningful partnerships and carries forward the relationship-driven legacy of the late Bob Bender, an esteemed Oatey sales leader for over 40 years.

The HVAC parts and equipment supplier was opened in January by president/owner Conner Leahr. The company encompasses 12,000 square feet at 3111 Kitty Hawk Road.

Explore The Trades (ETT) received a record number of applications for this year’s grants, which the organization said demonstrates an unprecedented interest in career and technical education among students, educators, and school communities across the country.

Rural Pipe & Supply is a first-generation, family-owned and operated business founded in 1999 by Tommy and Amanda Shaver. Headquartered in Jasper, Texas, the company operates two locations: Rural Pipe & Supply in Jasper and Rural Pipe & Plumbing Supply in Livingston, Texas.