In this special episode, Eric O’Connor, Vice President of Sales & Marketing at Derco USA, joins Casey Hutchinson, President of Empire Rubber & Supply Company, for a personal and professional deep dive.

Eric talks about his upbringing, family, and education, as well as the work he did before entering the belting industry. He shares the story of how his dad inspired him to join the business, what it’s been like working alongside both his father and his brother, and what he finds most rewarding about building a family-driven career.

We’ll also hear about Derco and Derco USA—the markets they serve, their product lines, and their unique capabilities. Eric reflects on how NIBA and other organizations have supported the company and its growth.

Outside of work, Eric opens up about the best advice he’s ever recei ...