Honoring a PVF Legend
After more than four decades of dedicated service and transformative leadership in the pipe, valves, and fittings (PVF) sector, Joe Pro, Chairman of Pennsylvania Machine Works (Penn Machine), has officially retired, effective July 4, 2025. This marks the end of an extraordinary era for our company and the industry.
We at Penn Machine are incredibly proud to celebrate Joe’s legacy—a career built on integrity, excellence, and a deep-seated commitment to our people and our customers.
A Career Defined by Leadership and Growth
Joe Pro’s journey with Penn Machine began back in 1984 as Assistant Controller. Over the years, his expertise and passion for the PVF industry saw him take on a progression of key roles: USDF Plant Manager, Operations Manager, and eventually, President and Chairman.
Under his guidance, Penn Machine solidified its reputation as a trusted source for high-quality forged fittings and branch connections, earning recognition from major PVF distributors and end-users across the country. His leadership didn’t just drive growth; it instilled a culture of quality and precision engineering—core values that remain the foundation of everything we do.
Joe’s own words perfectly capture his dedication to the relationships he cultivated:
“I consider you more than coworkers; you became friends and family.” Meeting with customers has always been the highlight of my duties.”
This customer-centric mindset and unwavering integrity are a testament to the type of leader he has always been.
A Legacy That Extends Across the PVF Industry
Joe Pro’s influence reached far beyond the walls of Penn Machine. His tireless work with the PVF Roundtable, including his term as past President, had a massive impact on the entire industry community.
In recognition of his unwavering commitment, we are thrilled to announce that the PVF Round Table Board has approved his induction into the PVF Roundtable Hall of Fame. This well-deserved honor recognizes his efforts to strengthen and educate the next generation of PVF professionals. Under his leadership, the organization saw remarkable growth in membership and significantly increased scholarship donations to colleges and trade schools—directly preparing future talent for critical industrial infrastructure applications.
THANK YOU, Joe. For your wisdom, your kindness, and your steadfast love for our industry. We wholeheartedly appreciate everything you have done for the Roundtable and will continue to strive for excellence, just as you always have.
Joe leaves behind a strong, experienced leadership team at Penn Machine, ready to build on his foundation of success and continue providing the reliable, time-sensitive flow control solutions you depend on.