RIDGID, a part of Emerson’s professional tools portfolio, recently hosted its sixth annual RIDGID Experience, an all-expenses-paid, three-day VIP trip that invites select members of the skilled trades to gather for fun, camaraderie and hands-on experiences at RIDGID headquarters in Elyria, Ohio. Attendees are selected from a pool of hundreds of professional tradespeople who enter the contest annually.

One highlight of this year’s event was a factory tour that invited each guest to build their own iconic RIDGID customized pipe wrench. Guests also received a sneak peek at the latest RIDGID tool innovations and provided their opinions on product that is currently in development.

“RIDGID Experience has always been a memorable celebration of the trades, but 2023 was especially meaningful since RIDGID is celebrating our 100th anniversary,” said Maddie Suvak, engagement marketing manager, RIDGID for Emerson. “It is humbling to think about where the company began and how it has evolved into a brand with loyal users of RIDGID tools, many passed down from generation to generation. The excitement of this year’s group for RIDGID and the trades was nothing less than inspiring.”

Participants came from across the country and echoed this same enthusiasm for the trip.

“Loved every second! Being able to see the faces behind the design process and assembly was amazing! Truly an experience of a lifetime, thank you,” said Bobby Drescher, Experience participant.

Participant, James Brand, said, “Thank you so much for inviting us in! This was the experience of a lifetime! So happy to meet everyone! Definitely made me feel like part of the family!”

Guests also had the opportunity to network with attendees of Greenlee Experience, a similar contest hosted by professional tools brand Greenlee. The two concurrent events created a full-scale celebration of the electrical, mechanical and plumbing trades.

Winners included the following nine guests:

• Antonio Delacerda, Tulsa, Oklahoma
• Bobby Drescher, Newnan, Georgia
• Caleb Segura, Catskill, New York
• Derek Zeolla, Stoughton, Massachusetts
• Jacob Cordero, Victorville, California
• James Brand, Sarasota, Florida
• Jeff Demassari, Parlin, New Jersey
• João Escorio, San Lorenzo, California
• Megan Weston-Jesso, Hamilton, Ontario

Details on the 2024 RIDGID Experience Contest will be announced early next year