nexAir, founded in 1940 as Standard Welders Supply, was purchased by his father in 1950. Bob worked summers at the company during high school and college. Graduating from Vanderbilt University, Bob formally joined the company in 1963. He became President of the company in July 1971 and Chairman/CEO in 1996. Under his leadership, Bob guided the company and growth, which included acquisitions, mergers, start-ups, and joint ventures. During his 60 years with the company, revenues and geographical reach grew substantially. Bob’s son Kevin took over the company as CEO in 2007 developing the company to an industry powerhouse. When sold in 2023, the company had over 75 locations and 725 employees, one of the largest in the industry.
