That connection to the community remains one of the most rewarding aspects of his career.

“Being a part of an organization such as WSG, it allows me to help people in times of need along with being able to give back through our local communities,” Longley said.

He also enjoys helping customers turn plans into reality, particularly when WSG has a role in designing and supplying products for a dream home, new build or remodel.

For Longley, distribution itself is about much more than simply moving products.

“Plumbing and electrical sales is about much more than selling products,” he said. “It’s about understanding the customer’s needs, knowing the industry, solving problems, and building relationships.”

Having the right products and vendor relationships, he added, can make the difference in keeping projects on schedule while helping contractors work safely and efficiently.

Longley's approach to that work is strongly influenced by his Christian faith. He points to Acts 4:12 as a daily source of motivation and a reminder to approach both his personal and professional life with integrity, respect, service and a commitment to excellence.

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Rather than identifying a single achievement as his proudest, Longley values the opportunity he's had to grow throughout his career at WSG and contribute to a privately held, family-owned business focused on its employees, customers and communities.

He's particularly proud to help prepare the company for future generations and create opportunities for others to make their own impact on the industry.

For Longley, that means his proudest professional moment may still be ahead.

“Every day is an opportunity to make it ‘a new proudest moment,’” he said.