JOURNEY TO JOINING THE FAMILY BUSINESS
Stepping into a family business doesn’t guarantee an easy start, especially in a complex industry such as natural gas. When Grace and Kevin joined Kerr Engineered Sales, the name was familiar, but the work wasn’t.
Stepping into a family business doesn’t guarantee an easy start, especially in a complex industry such as natural gas. When Grace and Kevin joined Kerr Engineered Sales, the name was familiar, but the work wasn’t. They entered an environment built on decades of hands-on experience, with products and services that require technical and practical knowledge. Credibility isn’t inherited; it has to be earned.
For Grace, it was overwhelming at first. “I was meeting customers, going to job sites and attending trade shows with Thomas (Dad) and Uncle David. Discussions were about stopple jobs, pigs, closures, catalytic heaters, compressor stations and separators. I didn’t know what they were talking about.”
Until then, their only exposure to the natural gas industry was as a consumer.
Grace graduated began her career in software sales in Austin, TX. David’s son, Kevin Kerr also joined in the summer of 2025. He is a recent grad from Penn State.
built on expertise
KERR Engineered Sales sells technical equipment and services for pipeline repair and maintenance. The team is highly valued for their expertise, knowledge and longevity. KERR represents multiple principals who manufacture lines of equipment that enable gas to flow safely and reliably to consumers and industry. Across the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic, the team works closely with major utilities and gas companies on critical projects.
Although the learning curve is steep, their teachers are skilled. Grace was impressed by David’s technical knowledge and patience. She noted, “Whether Uncle David is at the office or in the field, his phone is constantly beeping with texts and calls from customers needing advice and solutions. He is a problem solver.”
The company was founded in 1952 by Art Kerr Sr. and his son, Jack, who turned the company over to Thomas and David in 1997. Traveling with her father reinforced the importance of relationships. “Thomas is constantly on the road, doing presentations, lunch and learns, visiting sites and responding to opportunities.”
When David planned the trip to Kansas and Oklahoma to meet key principals and see the manufacturing facilities, Grace admits she wasn’t thrilled at the idea of driving from Pittsburgh to Kansas, Tulsa and back. But the trip ended up playing a key role in their understanding of the company and legacy.
Visiting the factories, seeing equipment built, and meeting the people behind it accelerated their understanding in a way no manual or meeting could.
Shih-Shin Chou, Bruest VP demonstrating heater operations
Learning the Industry Firsthand
Bruest Catalytic Heaters. The first stop was Independence, Kansas. The Bruest line of flameless, catalytic heaters are custom manufactured to detailed specifications and requirements.
Grace and Kevin saw catalytic heaters on the production line and got to know the key people in sales and manufacturing.
The next stop was Tulsa, Oklahoma, the global headquarters of
T.D. Williamson (TDW) pipeline repair and maintenance products and services. KERR Engineered Sales was started in 1952 by Art Kerr, Sr. to provide sales representation for T.D. Williamson. Since then, Kerr has sold TDW equipment and services along the eastern seaboard and mid-Atlantic.
“Touring the facilities and meeting face-to-face with key principals gave us insight into the quality of the products and strength of the relationships.”
-Grace Kerr
Highlights included touring the massive manufacturing plant where ShortStopp fittings, Lock-O-Rings, Hot Tapping equipment and valves are produced. It was an ocean of red paint, parts and automated workstations.
They watched Senior technicians service and repair equipment for customers and visited TDW’s line of Pigging products that clean and maintain pipelines.
After meeting with T.D. Williamson President & CEO Bob McGrew, TDW hosted a happy hour for the KERR group.
While in Tulsa, they met with TEK-FINS and ZEVAC.
TEK-FINS Air Cooled Heat Exchangers (ACHEs) are an essential component of natural gas production, gathering, and processing by removing heat from the gas stream without relying on water.
At the plant, they stood next to ACHE units as large as airplanes. TEK-FINS CEO, engineers and office employees explained how they are built for demanding field conditions.
TEK-FINS Air Cooled Heat Exchanger
ZEVAC ZD3 Methane mitigation technology
ZEVAC has an innovative cross compression technology that captures and recovers gas and liquids during operations and maintenance. ZEVAC supports emission reductions during pipeline repair projects.
Art Kerr, Sr. founded KERR in 1952
Between meetings, David built in time to explore Tulsa. Prior to forming KERR, Art was an executive with Rockwell in Tulsa. They visited the family home where Grace and Kevin’s grandfather, Jack Kerr grew up.
The hours in the car back to Pittsburgh went by quickly. They asked questions, got to know each other and built bonds.
“After the trip, things started to connect,” Kevin said. “You understand the equipment differently when you’ve seen where it comes from and how it’s used.”
-Kevin Kerr
looking ahead
There’s no shortcut in this business. Knowledge is built over time—in the field, seeing equipment in action, and learning from mentors.
Eight months in, Grace and Kevin’s learning curve continues. Grace is generating quotes, supporting customers and organizing trade shows. Kevin is attending to key principals and building his technical expertise.
They understand that respect is earned, not inherited.
About Kerr Engineered Sales Company. Since 1952, KERR has represented leading pipeline and performance equipment manufacturers across the Eastern U.S. Now in its fourth generation of family leadership, the team continues to serve the industry with the same commitment to quality, reliability, and personal service that has defined our company for more than 74 years.
VIDEO: HOW TO START A BRUEST CATALYTIC HEATER
In cold weather, the gas industry turns to Bruest for cost-efficient heating systems to prevent freeze-ups in critical metering and regulating equipment. Our new video walks through the components, process and troubleshooting tips for starting a Bruest heater.
When temperatures drop, the natural gas industry turns to Bruest for cost-efficient heating systems to prevent freeze-ups in critical metering and regulating equipment. Catalytic technology delivers consistent heat with minimal maintenance.
Our new video walks through the process and includes troubleshooting tips for starting Bruest heaters.
The KERR team has decades of knowledge and hands-on expertise with catalytic heater operations and troubleshooting. Our Application Specialists work with you to commission new units or maintain systems that have been in service for decades.
We are here to ensure every heater operates safely and performs at optimal levels.
ABOUT BRUEST & RESOURCES
Bruest Catalytic Heaters are used wherever temperature control is critical, provide steady, flameless infrared heat to maintain proper operating temperatures in critical equipment. Built in Independence, Kansas, Bruest engineers and manufactures reliable, efficient, flameless heat across the entire natural gas network including:
Meter and regulator stations
Compressor buildings
Pipeline manifolds
Wellhead skids
Analyzer shelters and equipment enclosures
Download Operations Guide
Download Brochure
Since 1952, Kerr Engineered Sales Company has represented leading pipeline and performance equipment manufacturers across the Eastern U.S. With four generations of family leadership, Kerr continues to serve the industry with the same commitment to quality, reliability, and personal service that has defined our company for more than 74 years.
BRIDGING THE SKILLS GAP FOR YOUNG PIPELINE PROFESSIONALS
Kerr, along with T.D. Williamson and ZEVAC are playing a vital role helping companies such as National Grid invest in the next generation of young pipeline professionals. Read about the movement.
Kerr Engineered Sales, with T.D. Williamson and ZEVAC are playing a vital role helping companies such as National Grid transfer essential industry knowledge to the next generation of pipeline professionals.
The natural gas industry is facing a generational shift. Veteran engineers and technicians who spent their entire career building and maintaining the backbone of the oil & gas industry are retiring. In the pipeline and distribution sector, over a quarter of employees in key roles are “at or near retirement age.” (McKinsey) As they exit, decades of institutional knowledge and field expertise is at risk of disappearing.
At the same time, utility work has grown in complexity. Roles are increasingly specialized. Conventional industry conferences cater to those who already understand advanced technologies and applications. The younger and new-to-the-industry professionals are eager to accelerate their careers, but they haven’t been exposed to advanced applications and equipment. The result is a widening experience gap.
Ian Kornfeld, Regional Engineering Manager at National Grid is working to close that gap for young and new professionals to learn and ask questions from technical experts. In collaboration with Young Pipeline Professionals USA (YPP USA) and National Grid, he is championing events and initiatives to increase engagement and fuel career growth for the next generation.
Building Your Pipeline Pathway: A New Approach to Career Development
More than 115 individuals from the Northeast met at the National Grid Training Center in Melville, NY, for the 2025 Building Your Pipeline Pathway. The day had two objectives:
Provide high level overviews of key equipment, processes, and applications used in day-to-day operations.
Create an inclusive environment of continuous learning and curiosity.
Participants from all aspects of the industry rotated through 30-minute technical sessions led by subject matter experts. The topics and vendors were selected based on feedback from last year’s event.
Topics included:
Hot Tapping & Isolation- David Kerr & Ron Comer, Kerr Engineered Sales
State-of-the-art equipment and tools essential for safe repairs and maintenance of pressurized pipelines while the system stays in operation.
“We brought in experts who teach—not sell. David Kerr isn’t just an expert. He taught Hot Tapping and Isolation fundamentals - what it is, how the equipment operates, and why it matters.”
In-Line Inspection (ILI)- Jason Matocha, T.D. Williamson
ILI utilizes smart sensors to detect corrosion and generate precise data for repair plans, safety and compliance. Jason showed how ILI tools work, the kinds of anomalies seen and how the data can help pipeline operators make educated decisions to keep pipelines operating safely.
Cross-Compression- Michael Stephens, ZEVAC
The equipment and technology used to avoid gas venting and reduce methane emissions. Cross compression is a hot topic for National Grid and the wider industry.
Ian led a session about career development and hurdles he overcame. He urged folks to consider multiple paths within the industry, from integrity to construction to environmental compliance, to find their area of interest.
A scavenger hunt by National Grid’s Learning & Development team kept engagement high. Afterwards, a happy hour solidified new connections.
Feedback was very positive. The sessions generated interest to learn more; there was steady dialogue and lots of questions.
Championing a Movement
When Ian joined the utility in 2016, he struggled to find avenues to learn the basics.
“There wasn’t anyone officially championing young professionals,” he said. “I followed the experienced guys around and pried them for information. I asked a lot of questions. It took a lot of persistence. As I was exposed to all types of projects—transmission, distribution, gate stations, heaters and major repairs, it started making sense.”
Searching for ways to broaden his network, he discovered Young Pipeline Professionals USA, a Houston based organization with National membership. Through YPP USA, he met industry peers and got involved in leadership. He learned about broader aspects of the industry, including legal, customer relations, construction and finance.
Convinced that there was value in a mentorship and training ecosystem for the Northeast, Ian pitched to National Grid leadership. Without investing in foundational knowledge development, he explained, the company risked losing employees to more enticing career paths. Leadership agreed. Ian set forth to champion the effort, understanding the massive undertaking and time commitment, but with an end goal in mind.
Advice for Advancement: Ask Questions and Get Involved
The industry’s most experienced gas engineers and technicians started in the trenches and worked in all facets of the gas industry. Many spent their career at one utility and became experts. By identifying issues and problems, innovative solutions emerged. A lot of pride came with that mastery.
Ian wonders if the veterans aren’t making time to give their experience away to the next generation because no one is asking them questions.
He knows from his own journey, the path to a successful career in the gas industry is fueled by asking questions, seeking experience and getting involved.
Curiosity and Community
Ian wants to reverse the trend of employees sitting in silence when they don’t know the questions to ask or don’t want to look inexperienced. Instead of waiting for the knowledge to come to them, they must go out and get it.
“Instead of focusing on how to get ahead," he urged. “Be curious. Seek out the experienced folks. If you don’t ask questions until you truly understand, you’ll never advance.”
While the pipeline industry is large in scope, the community of vendors, contractors and operators is small and tight knit, Ian explained. Getting involved leads to meeting the right people and learning. When you run into them again, you build a community that starts to feel like a family.
What’s Next: Growing the Movement
Plans to strengthen the profession and build bridges for collaboration include:
Establishing a formal Northeast YPP USA chapter
Developing structured succession planning
Creating ongoing mentorship programs
Providing regular technical deep dives for early-career employees
As the next generation builds foundational knowledge, Ian is confident these initiatives will spark a steady flow of new ideas and innovations. Gas operations are more efficient due to those who challenged the old way of doing things. Instead of the mindset “we’ve always done it this way,” he encourages the question, “Is there a better way?”
About Ian Kornfeld - Regional Engineering Manager, National Grid, Melville, NY
Ian has been in the gas pipeline industry for 10 years. He manages a team responsible for the engineering, design and technical oversight of large-scale capital projects, with a yearly capital budget of over $150 million. Ian was part of the team that designed, built and completed a 10 mile multiyear, 30 inch diameter high pressure gas main throughout Brooklyn, New York. He is a licensed Mechanical Professional Engineer in New York, Massachusetts, Rhode Island and Maine. Other certifications include Project Management Professional, Certified Construction Manager, API 1169 as well as Institute for Asset Management.
About Kerr Engineered Sales Company. Since 1952, KERR has represented leading pipeline and performance equipment manufacturers across the Eastern U.S. Now in its fourth generation of family leadership, the team continues to serve the industry with the same commitment to quality, reliability, and personal service that has defined our company for more than 74 years.
BRUEST CATALYTIC HEATERS KEEP GAS FLOWING
As temperatures drop, the natural gas industry turns to Bruest for cost-efficient heating systems to prevent freeze-ups in critical metering and regulating equipment. Engineered for efficiency and safety, catalytic technology delivers consistent heat with minimal maintenance.
When temperatures drop, the natural gas industry turns to Bruest for cost-efficient heating systems to prevent freeze-ups in critical metering and regulating equipment. Engineered for efficiency and safety, catalytic technology delivers consistent heat with minimal maintenance.
Built in Independence, Kansas, Bruest engineers and manufactures reliable, efficient, flameless heat across the entire natural gas network in metering and regulating stations, analyzer shelters, compressor buildings, and pipeline manifolds.
The KERR team has decades of knowledge and hands-on expertise with catalytic heater operations, troubleshooting and start ups. Whether commissioning new units or maintaining systems that have been in service for decades, our Application Specialists work with customers to ensure every heater operates safely and performs at optimal levels.
Thomas Kerr starting a catalytic heater at a Compressor Building in Eastern PA. The flameless heat maintains temperatures above 50 degrees.
Freeze-FITER applied in front of an instrument preheats the gas
Thomas Kerr starting a Dual Coil Freez-FITER at a Compressor station
Bruest Catalytic Heaters are used wherever temperature control is critical, provide steady, flameless infrared heat to maintain proper operating temperatures in critical equipment.
Meter and regulator stations
Compressor buildings
Pipeline manifolds
Wellhead skids
Analyzer shelters and equipment enclosures
Catalytic Heater Fundamentals
Unlike conventional burners, catalytic heaters don’t rely on combustion. Instead, they use a catalytic reaction to release energy from natural gas or LPG at a much lower temperature—typically around 900°F (480°C) compared to the 1,200–1,400°F required for ignition. The result is safe, flameless infrared radiant heat—an exothermic chemical process that delivers steady warmth without sparks or smoke.
It’s not magic.. it’s an Exothermic chemical reaction.
DESIGNED FOR hazardous OR ENCLOSED ENVIRONMENTS
FREEZ-FITER with a Regulator
CSA Class I Div 1 or FM Class I Div 2
CSA and FM approvals for Class I, Division 1 and 2 locations
ATEX certification for European installations
Operates on natural gas or LPG
Catalytic Pads require little to no maintenance
No moving parts and minimal maintenance
Long service life with consistent, reliable output
HOTCAT LINE HEATERS
In HOTCAT natural gas line heaters, Bruest catalytic heater panels are the heat source. The catalytic heater panels convert the fuel gas to CO2, water vapor, and infrared heat with virtually no NOx. The process begins by preheating of the catalyst with electric power. Once the catalyst is preheated, fuel gas can be introduced to complete the startup. Manual or automated control systems are available for different application requirements.
David Kerr fine tuning a HOTCAT that heats fuel gas to power large, reciprocating compressors.
Cody Smith troubleshooting a HOTCAT at a regulator station in Virginia.
Daryl Smith diagnosed that the 11 yr old HOTCAT needed new heater pads.
resources
Bruest Operations Guide
Bruest LDC Brochure
David Kerr teaching Bruest Heater Start Up and Operations
For Bruest Catalytic Heater support, training, maintenance or troubleshooting, connect with our Application Specialists.
MORE Applications for Catalytic Heaters
![FREEZ-FITER [S1800/4000]](https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/574a1b41c6fc0859c442cae9/1706560928142-N3IOT1HPAMSSJIMCI3Y5/Freez-FITER_BRUEST.png)
Since 1952, Kerr Engineered Sales Company has represented leading pipeline and performance equipment manufacturers across the Eastern U.S. Now in its fourth generation of family leadership, Kerr continues to serve the industry with the same commitment to quality, reliability, and personal service that has defined our company for more than 73 years.