Engineered Solutions

A conversation with Ron Wey, national sales manager, Pro-Tec Equipment
Pro-Tec Equipment has been a leading, innovative producer and distributor of trench shield (trench box) and trench shoring products since 1995. Through a network of national and independent distributors in the United States and Canada, Pro-Tec Equipment is able to market this equipment to fulfill the end users’ shoring and shielding needs. As a division of Trinity Shoring Products, Inc., Pro-Tec Equipment houses a team of highly qualified personnel with more than 80 years of combined experience in the trench shoring and shielding industry. Here’s more insight from Ron Wey, Pro-Tec Equipment’s national sales manager.
How’s business for Pro-Tec Equipment?
WEY: The year started strong and has continued to be steady, almost spot on with our 2016 forecast. We’ve added new dealers in three major markets while sustaining our traditional dealer base.

Featured Image: Ron Wey
Above: Pro-Tec Equipment’s Slide Rail Shoring System
What has influenced Pro-Tec Equipment and its product offerings?
WEY: Almost all of our ideas come from the field. Contractors are very creative and are always looking for the most productive tool. I am only slightly exaggerating if I say that in the early 90’s the trench shoring manufactures could list all of their products in a four-page handout, closer to 50 pages today. Our industry has become much more sophisticated with the addition of steel and aluminum systems. When you review our industry, you will see that our products have gotten bigger and smaller. The toolbox for trench shoring has become much more specialized.
How does Pro-Tec Equipment add benefit for the contractor?
WEY: We have become consultants and have many more engineered solutions. Our sales quotes frequently list several alternative methods, plus a cad drawing, showing exact dimensions. For example, if a customer tells us they need a shoring box for a manhole, we can show them at least six different models that could work, depending on their specific situation.
What do you see as the top three pressing issues for the industry?
WEY: The awareness of America’s aging infrastructure is still on the top of my list. The water crisis in Flint, Michigan, is only the tip of the iceberg. A high percentage of our water and sewer pipes are in dire need of repair or replacement. Money must be allocated. No one likes more taxes; however, the longer we wait, the more expensive the repairs will be. The second issue is demonstrating to contractors how our products will make their jobsite safer and help them to satisfy the OSHA requirements. We are continually upgrading our website, videos, and phone apps, etc. The third issue is how to recruit and train the workforce for the future.

Pro-Tec Equipment’s Steel Trench Shield
What’s your outlook for last half of 2016 for the industry and Pro-Tec Equipment?
WEY: Everywhere I travel I see cranes in the air and barricades on the roads. Many contractors that I know are booked through the end of the year. I feel very positive regarding the rest of 2016.
What makes Pro-Tec Equipment the vendor of choice for contractors?
WEY: Our dealer network has experienced professionals on staff, a variety of inventory, and a history of providing real solutions. More emphasis is being added to our research and development department to insure that our products will save the contractor time and money, plus keep the worksite safe. ■
For More Information:  For more information about Pro-Tec Equipment’s engineered solutions for shoring and shielding needs, visit www.pro-tecequipment.com.
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Modern Contractor Solutions – June 2016
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