The Fastener Training Institute (FTI) is proud to announce that managing director, John Wachman, has been included in the International Fastener Expo’s Fastener Hall of Fame. The Fastener Hall of Fame recognizes professionals who have made significant and enduring contributions to the industrial fastener industry on a national or global scale.

“I am deeply honored to receive this recognition from the industry,” said Wachman. “I will continue my best efforts to improve the fastener industry and am dedicated to seeing the industry thrive.”

Wachman’s career in the fastener industry began in the mid-1970s, working as a sales and product manager for Gesipa Fasteners covering the eastern and midwestern U.S. After stints as sales manager for Cherry Textron and VP of OEM Operations at Copper State Bolt and Nut, he embarked on his own venture and created Desert Distribution Sales, LLC in 2001.

Combining his relationships with manufacturers, distributors, and end-users, Wachman successfully intertwined his career-long experiences into a thriving business. For nearly 20 years, he’s persevered to create a successful and respected manufacturer’s rep agency.

After serving as a board member for the Los Angeles Fastener Association (LAFA) from 2006 to 2009, Wachman assisted in the unification of LAFA and the Western Association of Fastener Distributors to create the Pacific-West Fastener Association. He currently sits on the FIC Board of Directors.

“John is a special type of leader with an admirable commitment to the fastener industry,” said Jo Morris, marketing director for FTI. “We are thrilled he achieved this well-deserved recognition.”

Wachman’s vision to broaden fastener training resulted in him spearheading FTI, achieving 501(c)(6) non-profit status in 2014. Under his leadership at FTI, these milestones were reached:

• Virtual Learning – live webinars and online training presented monthly by industry experts
• Expanded curriculum offered in over 26 cities throughout the United States
• On-Demand Learning Library – training center for all levels of experience
• Refreshed Certified Fastener Specialist (CFS) program
• CFS2.0 – advanced technical training curriculum for post-CFS training
• Educational content provider for regional and national trade shows
• Grant and scholarship programs for free training
• Training at an affordable price

As Wachman prepares the next generation for sustainability and advancement, he remains dedicated to keeping this industry alive. He has brought fastener training to companies and students who do not have the ability to travel for live instruction.

His perseverance and focus resulted in a sales career that spans nearly 50 years. Wachman has mentored, managed, and directed teams of fastener professionals who have been lucky enough to learn from him the importance of the fastener industry economically and the critical importance of fasteners in the production of everything from appliances to infrastructure.