Our Team
Our Team: A Legacy of Excellence
Since our inception in 1965, ValveMan has been at the forefront of the valve industry, setting benchmarks and creating a legacy of unparalleled expertise. Our journey spanning over five decades is a testament to our commitment, passion, and the trust our clients place in us. Our team, a blend of seasoned professionals and dynamic young talents, brings together a wealth of knowledge and innovative thinking. Together, we've navigated the evolving landscapes of the industry, always staying ahead of the curve, ensuring that our clients receive nothing but the best. At ValveMan, we don't just sell valves; we share a legacy of excellence, built on trust, expertise, and a relentless pursuit of perfection.
Gilbert Welsford Jr. | Founder and CEO of ValveMan
Gilbert Welsford Jr. is a distinguished figure in the valve industry, recognized for his engineering acumen and vast expertise. He is the third-generation proprietor of the FS Welsford Company, which also encompasses ValveMan.com. In 2011, Gilbert launched ValveMan.com, an online hub dedicated to valves and related items. This platform, under Gilbert's stewardship, has become a reliable source for valve engineers and purchasers, boasting a comprehensive selection of premium valves and stellar customer support. Gilbert's deep grasp of fluid dynamics and precision engineering has enabled him to contribute significantly to the creation and application of various valve types. His proficiency spans across control valves, ball valves, and more, allowing him to craft bespoke solutions for varied industrial requirements. Gilbert's collaborative nature and superior communication aptitude have solidified robust ties with clients from sectors like oil and gas, petrochemicals, and manufacturing. Committed to innovation and quality, Gilbert consistently stays updated with industry advancements, ensuring the delivery of avant-garde valve solutions.
Jason Welsford | President of FSW Companies
Jason Welsford is a prominent figure in the valve industry, continuing the family tradition as the third-generation owner of the FS Welsford Company, which oversees ValveMan.com. With profound industry knowledge, Jason has established himself as a trusted expert. Under his guidance, ValveMan.com has emerged as a top online destination for valves and related products, serving various industries. Jason's dedication to quality and client satisfaction has positioned ValveMan.com as a preferred resource globally. His expertise spans diverse valve systems, such as gate valves and ball valves, enabling him to offer bespoke solutions for sectors like oil and gas, petrochemicals, and manufacturing. Jason's collaborative nature and leadership acumen have cultivated robust ties with clients and peers. He excels in analyzing intricate valve systems, providing expert advice, and ensuring project success. Passionate about innovation, Jason consistently explores new industry technologies, reinforcing his esteemed position in the valve sector.
Nancy Mullen | Director of Operations
Profile Coming Soon
Kurt Hanusa | Sales Manager
Kurt brings a wealth of experience in sales and customer service to ValveMan, backed by a strong entrepreneurial background and a deep commitment to people-first business practices. Having successfully built his own brand of products, Kurt not only grew a loyal client base but also transitioned his businesses to new ownership, empowering other families to achieve success. Beyond his business ventures, Kurt founded a non-profit organization dedicated to helping youth across the country foster stronger connections within their schools through technology and sports. His passion for community and mentorship reflects his belief in the power of meaningful relationships. Growing up on a dairy farm in Wisconsin, Kurt developed a strong work ethic and a client-centered approach to service—values that continue to shape his professional philosophy. He is dedicated to building lasting partnerships, ensuring that both his team and customers feel valued. Outside of work, Kurt prioritizes his personal relationships with family, friends, and the people he meets along life’s journey. His belief that "people matter" is at the core of everything he does, both professionally and personally.
Cleon Kemp | Sales Engineer
Cleon grew up in a small business, where he learned to understand the value of customer service and the importance of building lasting client relationships. This foundation has shaped Cleon’s approach to delivering exceptional results and understanding customer needs. As a sales representative at ValveMan, Cleon takes pride in being part of a company with a strong legacy of excellence. With specialized training and a passion for helping customers, Cleon is dedicated to finding tailored solutions that meet every client’s unique requirements.
Russ Bailey | Sales Engineer
Russ Bailey stands out as a seasoned professional in the valve industry, with an impressive 35-year tenure in valve sales. Serving as an Outside Sales Representative for both ValveMan.com and FS Welsford, Russ's vast knowledge and expertise are evident in his work. His deep understanding of various valve types, including gate valves and ball valves, allows him to offer customized solutions tailored to client needs. Russ is renowned for his exceptional sales skills and his knack for forging robust client relationships. His consultative sales approach, combined with his profound industry knowledge, enables him to pinpoint customer requirements and suggest optimal valve solutions. His commitment to client satisfaction has significantly contributed to business growth and the establishment of enduring partnerships. As a pivotal figure in both ValveMan.com and FS Welsford, Russ plays a key role in enhancing their market footprint and ensuring top-tier client service. With over three decades of success, Russ Bailey remains a trusted and esteemed figure in the valve sector.
Mark Trainer | Sales Engineer
Mark Trainer, a Navy Veteran Aviation Electronics Technician, boasts a rich background in maintaining avionics systems on A7 Corsair II aircraft during the 1980s aboard the USS Independence. This hands-on experience, combined with over four decades in process valves and controls, positions him as an esteemed professional in the valve industry. Serving as an Outside Sales Representative for both ValveMan.com and FS Welsford Company, Mark's vast knowledge spans gate valves, ball valves, and more. His expertise in control loops, encompassing valves, sensors, and controls, empowers him to understand client processes and meet performance expectations. Mark's proficiency in forging robust client relationships, discerning their unique needs, and offering strategic advice is commendable. His commitment to superior customer service and his enduring dedication to the valve sector have cemented his reputation for reliability and professionalism. Mark's invaluable contributions drive growth and ensure exceptional results for ValveMan.com and FS Welsford.
Jason Bauman | Sales Engineer
With two decades of experience in valve sales and a solid foundation in industrial maintenance, Jason Bauman brings a practical, hands-on approach to solving technical challenges. His mechanical expertise and industry knowledge make him a dependable resource for customers looking for effective solutions. Outside of work, Jason stays active in his community as a volunteer and youth sports coach. He also enjoys restoring classic cars and boats, combining his passion for craftsmanship with his love for problem-solving.
Amr Shweiky | Sales Engineer
Amr is a seasoned professional with 15 years of experience in customer service and logistics, bringing strong problem-solving skills and a solutions-oriented mindset to every challenge. With a background as a wastewater operator, Amr possesses valuable technical expertise and operational knowledge, making him a strong asset to ValveMan. His passion for service and innovation drives him to deliver high-quality, reliable solutions that enhance customer satisfaction and operational efficiency. Beyond work, Amr enjoys hands-on projects, hiking, and tinkering in the garage, but his most rewarding role is being a dedicated father of two.
Josh Kirk | Sales Engineer
Josh Kirk is dedicated to making every customer’s experience at ValveMan smooth, efficient, and hassle-free. With a passion for problem-solving and a strong background in sales and customer service, he thrives on finding the best solutions for each unique need. His nearly 10 years in the transportation industry—dealing with flatbeds, full truckloads, and partial loads—have sharpened his ability to navigate complex logistics with ease. Outside of work, Josh is a professional BBQ competitor under UP in Smokers BBQ, where precision and patience are just as important as in his day-to-day work. A die-hard Philly sports fan and an Ocean City, Maryland summer regular, Josh brings the same enthusiasm and commitment to customers at ValveMan as he does to everything he’s passionate about.
Christina Welsford | CFO of FSW Companies
Since joining FS Welsford in 2020, Chris has been committed to strengthening the family business alongside her husband and their two sons, Gil Jr. and Jason. With a Mathematics degree from the University of Notre Dame, she applies an analytical mindset to support the efficiency and growth of operations. At ValveMan, the company takes pride in providing exceptional service, and being part of a family-driven business allows her to help cultivate strong customer relationships built on trust and integrity. When she’s not working, she enjoys spending time with her grandchildren, embracing the same family-first values that define the business.
Gil Welsford Sr. | Advisor
With more than 40 years of experience at FS Welsford Company, Gil Sr. brings a lifelong commitment to the valve industry. His parents started the business in 1965, giving him early exposure to the industry and a passion for helping customers solve complex challenges through the right valve and instrumentation solutions. Over the years, he has collaborated with manufacturers to design new valve configurations tailored to customer requirements. In his free time, he enjoys cooking, trap shooting, and making memories with family.
Kazu Nishimura | Administrative Assistant
Kazutomo Nishimura plays a vital role in optimizing administrative support at ValveMan, where he manages administrative tasks and streamline data management. With a strong background in administrative support, data analysis, and workflow optimization, he contributes to the team's efficiency and growth. His expertise in data entry, reporting, and process improvement helps enhance operational effectiveness. Proficient in BigCommerce, Excel, and various administrative tools, Kazutomo brings keen attention to detail and a strong commitment to continuous improvement. His dedication aligns with the company's values of commitment, passion, and trust, ensuring that clients receive nothing but the best. Beyond his professional life, Kazutomo studied culinary arts and loves exploring different cuisines through cooking. However, his most fulfilling role is being a devoted father. In his spare time, he enjoys playing chess and basketball, swimming, traveling, and immersing himself in books.