Guided by Legacy. Committed to Progress.

EOH + PEI: Then & Now

When we opened our doors in 1927, fueling looked very different. Pumps were mechanical, stations were few, and every sale depended on trust. Our founder, Elmer Otto Habhegger, built this company on simple values: do good work, treat people well, and always stand behind what you sell. Those ideas have carried us through nearly a century of change.

In 1951 a group of distributors formed what would become the Petroleum Equipment Institute. The petroleum equipment industry was growing fast and needed a unified voice. Their goal was to create a space where people could share knowledge, standardize best practices, and help the industry advance together. We joined early on, and just a few years later, Elmer Otto served as PEI’s tenth president. It was the start of a partnership built on shared purpose and respect that has lasted more than sixty-five years.

Company founder E.O. Habhegger, who served as PEI’s tenth president in 1961.

E.O. Habhegger honored among past PEI presidents whose leadership shaped the industry.

When PEI officially became the Petroleum Equipment Institute in 1966, it opened its doors to a broader membership and began formalizing its technical standards. Around that same time, our company was growing too, building a reputation as a trusted partner for customers across the region. We grew alongside PEI as both organizations adapted to new technology, regulations, and customer needs.

The 1970s and 1980s brought big changes to fueling, from new environmental regulations to the rise of vapor recovery systems. PEI became a key source of guidance for the industry, developing the Recommended Practices that shaped how fueling systems are installed and maintained today. During those same years, we continued to invest in our people, our training, and our customers, helping them stay compliant and confident through every shift in the industry.

Ken Hagman, longtime EOH president and respected PEI leader, TulsaLetter 1980

EOH President Chris Hagman

Much of that era was shaped by Ken Hagman, who joined E.O. Habhegger in 1967 and led the company for more than forty years. Ken was hands-on, fair, and deeply connected to both our team and the customers we serve. His steady leadership and involvement in PEI strengthened our company and helped define what it means to lead with integrity.

The lessons Ken taught still guide us. Jody Porter, who began his career under Ken’s mentorship, has carried forward that same sense of connection and commitment. For more than thirty years, Jody has represented EOH at PEI conventions and meetings, helping keep the relationships that matter most alive and well.

Today, under the leadership of Chris Hagman, we continue to honor the values that built this company while looking ahead to what comes next. The Hagman family’s leadership has shaped EOH for more than half a century, and that sense of continuity runs deep. Chris grew up around the business and understands both the weight of its history and the importance of moving it forward. Under his guidance, EOH has expanded into new areas such as power generation and industrial equipment, strengthened its digital presence, and continued to prioritize education and safety through its ongoing connection with PEI. His leadership reflects a steady balance of tradition and innovation that keeps EOH strong for the future.

Jody Porter, VP of Sales on the cover of Energy Business Review

Pete Hojnowski with Sara Beck, PEI Board Chair and President of MECO, Inc.

Our involvement with PEI continues through the people who represent us today. Pete Hojnowski, who manages our Hammonton branch, serves on the PEI District 2 Board and helps lead conversations that move the industry forward.

Several of our team members also take part in the PEI Young Executives group and other committees focused on supporting the next generation of professionals. We’re proud to sponsor events like the PEI Foundation Gala, which helps fund scholarships and workforce development programs that keep our field strong. For us, staying involved isn’t just about showing up. It’s about giving back to the community that has helped shape who we are.

In June 2025, we had the pleasure of welcoming the PEI team to our Yeadon headquarters as part of the Members & Miles “Bridging the Workforce Gap” tour. The day centered around connection, conversation, and shared insight. Chris led a warehouse tour and talked about the value of hands-on experience in our industry. Later, Jody joined PEI President Jason Blake for an open discussion on hiring, retention, and how to keep this work meaningful for the next generation. The day wrapped up with the PEI District 2 meeting in King of Prussia, where Pete and Jason continued the conversation over great food and even better company. It didn’t feel like an event. It felt like spending the day with friends who care about the same things we do.

From Elmer Otto’s local shop in 1927 to the multi-branch national operation we are today, one thing has never changed. E.O. Habhegger is built on people who care about their work, their customers, and each other.

Almost one hundred years later, we’re proud to still stand alongside PEI and the many people who share our values. Guided by legacy. Focused on progress. Still fueling what’s next.