RIDGID, a part of Emerson’s professional tools portfolio, recently hosted their fifth annual RIDGID Experience trip, a VIP event that invites select members of the skilled trades to gather for fun, camaraderie and hands-on experiences. The event also serves as a “thank you” to the trades for the role they play in building and maintaining our country’s infrastructure.

The contest, which draws entries from tradespeople across the country, concludes with RIDGID treating nine guests to a three-day, all-expenses-paid trip to RIDGID headquarters. The highlight of the visit is a factory tour that invites 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 a product that is currently in development. Evening events included treating the guests to a preview of the company’s 100-Year Anniversary celebration plans, set for 2023. Guests also had the opportunity to network with guests 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.

“The excitement around RIDGID Experience, both by trade professionals and the RIDGID team, has grown each year,” said Becky Brotherton, director of engagement marketing at RIDGID for Emerson. “After every contest, our team is always impressed by the pride and commitment each guest has for their profession. It’s a privilege to be able to thank each of them for their dedication and hard work with this VIP experience.”

This year’s guests were equally enthusiastic about the trip, with one guest calling it the “bucket list” trip of a lifetime.

“My favorite part was meeting the people behind the brand because that’s what makes the brand,” said Armando Ramos, a service plumber in Phoenix. “Now that I think of RIDGID, I think of family. Thanks for the opportunity!”

“I can’t say enough about how amazing the past few days were,” said Mary-Anne Bowcott, owner of Westcom Plumbing and Gas in Sooke, British Columbia. “I’m so grateful to have had the opportunity to go to the RIDGID Experience 2022 and meet so many fantastic people, check out the headquarters and go on some pretty awesome outings. I’m over the moon and still just can’t believe that I got to do this.”

Details on the 2023 RIDGID Experience Contest will be announced early next year.