Representing Ahern’s fifth generation of family leadership Tripp stands as the bridge between a groundbreaking past and an exciting future. As Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Ahern, Tripp has led Ahern through a time of extraordinary growth while maintaining a steadfast commitment to Ahern’s unbreakable values and beliefs, its customers and employees.
Each success and area of improvement is taken personally. And that personal feel permeates through the company, setting it apart from others. As CEO, Tripp, in conjunction with the Management Committee, creates a vision for where Ahern could be and then develops an environment that fosters its accomplishment. He works tirelessly to keep the focus on excellence.
A native of Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, Tripp earned a Bachelor of Science degree in mechanical engineering technology from the Milwaukee School of Engineering. Upon graduation in 1986, he spent two years as an estimator and project manager for other mechanical contractors in New York. Upon returning to Fond du Lac, Tripp began rising through the ranks at Ahern. In 1988, he joined Ahern as Project Manager, was promoted to Mechanical Department Manager in 1990, then President and Chief Operating Officer responsibilities in 1994, and assumed the duties of Chief Executive Officer in 1997.
Tripp has been very active with the Mechanical Contractors Association of America, the Mechanical Contractors Association of Wisconsin, the Associated General Contractors of Wisconsin, and has served on various national committees. He previously served on the Board of Directors of the Wisconsin Chapter of the Associated General Contractors and also as President of AGC’s Subcontractor Division Board of Directors.
Following the example of his father, Tripp has a powerful and ongoing commitment to give back to the community in which he lives. He is currently on the Board of Directors for the Fond du Lac Area Foundation. He previously served as Chairman of the Fond du Lac Family YMCA Annual Campaign Committee, and is a member of the Fond du Lac Rotary Club. He has served as the Chairman of the Fond du Lac Area Association of Commerce, and is a past President of South Hills Country Club. Tripp is a past Co-Chairman of St. Agnes Hospital’s Hospice Hope fundraiser and has also played an active role in fundraising for the Fond du Lac Area United Way.
Current role