Age: 39
Company: Dellon Sales Co.
Title: President
How long have you been in the PHCP-PVF industry?
DD: I was born into the industry. I am the fourth generation from the Dellon family to work and own Dellon Sales Co., and at least the fifth generation in the plumbing industry. My great-great-grandfather was a licensed plumber in New York City at the turn of the century. It’s very likely his family were plumbers that laid gas piping for gas lights in eastern Europe before him.
What drew you into the industry?
DD: I worked at trade shows since I was a child, and would give out popcorn and do easy product demonstrations. I used to go into the office when school was closed and would put together product binders. As I got older, I worked in the warehouse picking orders, unloading trucks, demolishing broken china with a sledgehammer, doing inventory, and other office projects.
I also grew up listening and learning from my father, Scott Dellon, about every different issue and topic with customers or vendors that he was dealing with at the time, even back in the 1990s.
What is the most rewarding aspect of working in the industry?
DD: It's extremely rewarding to work with our team and help everyone learn, achieve their goals and flourish. Every day presents a new and exciting challenge, whether it is a supply chain issue, a sales opportunity or outmaneuvering our competition.
What is one thing you wish more people knew/understood about the PHCP-PVF industry?
DD: People don’t understand that this is a thriving industry with ample career opportunities. Once you learn about our industry, you have a career for life. It is especially surprising to me that people don’t realize how important our industry is, even when it touches almost every aspect of their daily lives.
What has been the proudest moment in your career so far?
DD: I am proud every day when I wake up to know that we have the best team in the industry, who all work together to continuously improve ourselves and our company and our position in our market.
What is one thing most people don’t know about you?
DD: I love to learn about new technology and then teach other people about it. Whether it's our company, our customers or my friends. I also read a new book almost every week, usually, historical fiction mixed in with business books and topics on neuroscience and decision-making.
Why he was chosen as a Next Gen All Star Top 20 Under 40 winner:
“David is the fourth generation to his family's rep business. He is as smart as they come, very hard-working, committed to the business and industry, an outstanding relationship builder and a genuine good person. I've been in this business more than 30 years and David is a true all-star, standout and very deserving of being recognized,” says Jeff Harris, sales manager, Mueller Streamline.
