Jason McGuire to Become CEO; Tom McGuire to Begin Consulting Role with Houchens Industries
Louisville, KY — September 2026 — Air Hydro Power (AHP), a 100% employee-owned industrial distributor and solutions provider, announced that Jason MccGuire will become Chief Executive Officer effective October 1, 2026. Tom McGuire will retire from his day-to-day leadership role at AHP after 34 years with the company and begin a consulting role with Houchens Industries.
Tom McGuire joined AHP in 1992, when the company had six salespeople and approximately $10 million in annual sales. During his tenure, AHP grew into one of the region’s most respected industrial distribution companies, built on employee ownership, long-term customer relationships, technical expertise, and a commitment to continuous improvement.
“It has been a privilege to serve AHP and work alongside so many outstanding co-owners over the past 34 years,” said Tom McGuire. “Our growth has never been about one person. It has been the result of talented people across sales, customer service, operations, engineering, finance, and every other part of the company working together to take care of customers.”
In 198, Tom McGuire, Matt Ott, and Dick Beaven acquired AHP. The company reached $100 million in sales 21 years later and $200 million just six years after that. In 2023, AHP was acquired by Houchens Industries and became a 100% ESOP company. Today, AHP operates 27 locations and employs nearly 400 people.
In his consulting role with Houchens Industries, Tom McGuire will continue to assist AHP and Jason McGuire in selected areas, including acquisitions and special projects, wile also supporting other Houchens companies.
Jason McGuire, who is not related to Tom McGuire, joined AHP in January 2026. Since joining the organization, he has worked with AHP’s leadership team to strengthen safety, operational efficiency, technology adoption, and growth initiatives.
“I am honored by the opportunity to lead AHP,” said Jason McGuire. “Tom helped build an exceptional company with a strong culture, talented co-owners, and deep customer relationships. We will build on that foundation by continuing to invest in our people, serve customers remarkably well, and lead through change.”
Tom McGuire added, “I have complete confidence in Jason and the AHP leadership team. The company is well positioned for its next chapter, and I am excited to watch what this team accomplishes.”
About Air Hydro Power
Air Hydro Power is a 100% employee-owned industrial distributor and solutions provider headquartered in Louisville, Kentucky. With 27 locations in five states and nearly 400 employees, AHP serves more than 7,000 customers through technical expertise, service, and a broad portfolio of products and solutions, including fluid power, automation, hose and connector products, motors and pumps, material handling, and industrial supply.
For further information, contact Rachel Hubbs.
