The Power Transmission Distributors Association (PTDA) Foundation announced that the inaugural recipient of the Robert K. Callahan Future Leaders Award is Chris Gumas of Ruland Manufacturing Co., Inc.

A past president and 25-year PTDA Foundation Trustee, Bob Callahan was passionate about the mission of the PTDA Foundation. Callahan passed away in early 2021, and in recognition of his commitment to the advancement of new talent within the power transmissions/motion control (PT/MC) industry, the PTDA Foundation created the Robert K. Callahan Future Leaders Award.

“This award recognizes a young leader who exhibits a true passion for and desire to grow within the industry.”

Gumas joined Ruland in 2010, and today is the Director of Marketing, managing the company’s global distributor relationships, website and day-to-day commercial operations. Throughout his 11-year tenure with Ruland, “Gumas has never ceased to seek opportunities to advance his knowledge of the PT/MC industry, including his regular participation at the PTDA Leadership Development Conferences.”

“Part of leadership is building trust,” said Gumas. “When people see ideas working, it builds trust in your decision making.”

Gumas is an avid supporter and promoter of PTDA and currently serves on the PTDA Manufacturer Council.