In fact, one of the most important themes in our cover story is talking to others and reaching out. Ilija Martinovich’s world was falling apart, and he had to dig deep and find the wherewithal to ask for help and strengthen his community. You will find his story very empowering, and I am so thankful that he shared it with RUGGED. 

Knowing the importance community plays in all of our lives, PROS REPS RUGGED recently hosted an event with the goal to foster lifelong connections between tradespeople and fellow members of the PHCP industry. This inaugural PROS REPS RUGGED Road Show took place in Piscataway, New Jersey this May at General Plumbing Supply. 

I met a couple at the event, Esther and Michael Maskal, who had driven four hours to attend. New to the plumbing and HVAC industry, they posted on their Facebook page afterward that they “felt a bit out of place when they arrived” but within minutes, “realized something powerful,” that “this wasn’t just an event, it was a community.” They also posted about our PROS REPS ambassadors and said “every single one of them took the time to encourage and uplift.” Lastly, “It’s moments like these — connecting with genuine, hardworking professionals—that reinforce our commitment to [our company] and our mission to grow, learn and build something truly impactful.”  

While the turnout for our first event was less than we had hoped, it was still a success by the fact that we touched these small business owners and could connect directly with other individuals like Esther and Michael. Learn more about them and our event in this issue’s RUGGED Recap. 

In this second issue, you will also find columns, resources and news that help to fulfill the RUGGED mission to create, educate and advocate to help tradespeople lead healthier lives. Until next time, I hope to see you all at for our second PROS REPS RUGGED Road Show which will take place in Chicago in September! Stay tuned for more details. 

Thank you, and stay RUGGED!