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BizVoice/Indiana Chamber – November/December 2016
Risk stops counter team lead Brad Austin, a longtime employee,
as he walks by.
“You’ve been with us now 12 months, isn’t it – something like
that?” Risk inquires with a smile.
“Just short of 12 months and 30 years,” Austin quips, playing along.
“I’ve shared this with many people,” he reveals as Risk steps
away. “This is not a job. This is truly an adventure because every day
you have something new.
“He’s a great dude. To find somebody at his, I’m going to say
magnitude, to walk out here (into the store to interact with employees
is rare). He knows my name. And I’ll tell you, he’ll know my wife’s
name and my four boys’ names. Words can’t explain and describe that
man. He’s very unique.”
Launched in 1926, Kirby Risk provides a wide range of services,
including electrical supplies, sales and repair, as well as wiring
harness/cable and quality component manufacturing. It has 45 locations
throughout Indiana, Illinois, Ohio and Georgia.
There are five operating divisions:
• Kirby Risk Electrical Supply
• Kirby Risk Service Center
• Kirby Risk Precision Machining
• Kirby Risk Mechanical Solutions and Service
• ARCO Electric Products
A focus on values, family and “sacrificial service” – placing the
highest value on customers, employees, vendors and community
relations – have laid the foundation for its 90-year success story.
Leaving a legacy
Greg Brassie retired from Kirby Risk as an account manager in
May, but couldn’t stay away. A few months later he returned as a
truck delivery driver.
It’s a perfect fit.
“I love driving trucks,” he comments. “I’m cruising through my third
week (as of mid-August) and have learned all kinds of great things.”
Linda Sorensen’s career at Kirby Risk spans 28 years. Sociable
and customer driven, she’s a member of the inside sales team.
“I have fun with everybody I work with – sometimes a little too
much fun!” she jokes. “I love dealing with the customers. I enjoy taking
care of them and solving their problems. It’s a good feeling when I get
them out of a jam.”
FAMILY VALUES
By Symone C. Skrzycki
Kirby Risk Celebrates 90 Years
A brilliant showroom greets visitors arriving at Kirby Risk’s corporate headquarters in Lafayette. Lamps,
chandeliers, wall sconces and home decor illuminate the company’s commitment to quality and service.
Jim Risk, president and CEO, extends a congenial handshake. Instantly, he shines the spotlight on his
employees upon entering the adjacent electric supply store.
Member Recognition
Kirby Risk’s roots are steeped in downtown
Lafayette. J. Kirby Risk founded the
company in 1926 with a $500 loan from
his father. Fifteen years later, operations
moved to Third and Ferry streets.