Proto-Vest, Inc. announces Christopher (Woody) McElroy will be retiring October 1, 2019. Woody starting working at Proto-Vest part-time at the age of 12, and during his 36 years he contributed to company’s success in all facets of the business as Plant Manager, President, and CEO.

McElroy personally holds nine patents on systems including aircraft deicing, bag design, the IP Stripper and the AirGate®. “Woody’s ‘Institutional Knowledge’ will be greatly missed and we wish him all the best on his next adventure in life,” said new Proto-Vest President Jeff Reichard.

Reichard was appointed President effective July of this year and will continue to be the senior executive of the company with full Profit and Loss responsibility. He is a proven leader and these past few months provided a new business vision, enhanced customer approach all while implementing a new strategic plan.

Reichard previously held the CEO/President positions, both domestic and internationally, for multiple business sectors, such as manufacturing, service industries, healthcare transactions, distribution, software development, consumer products, automotive and aerospace with annual sales between $15M-$2.5B.

“Proto-Vest is one of those rare family-owned businesses to have revolutionized the car wash industry through their drying technology, Reichard said. I am a fixer and a grower of companies that have value. I am very excited, and grateful in the way our employees and customers have embraced our new vision with passion.”

Proto-Vest also announced that Simon “Buddy” Blattner will continue in his role as General Manager of the company focusing on improving drying technology and product direction.

“We are very fortunate to have an experienced multifaceted executive in Buddy at Proto-Vest, Riechard said. During these last three months, Buddy has performed beyond my high expectations in contributing, leading, and implementing our vision to drive product direction, innovation, and a new customer friendlier approach at Proto-Vest.”