Meet Marty Nolan, a recognized leader in the fastener industry and the President of R.L. English Co. With over 30 years of experience, Marty has dedicated his career to fostering trusted relationships, expanding sales, and ensuring his company’s success. Inducted into the Fastener Hall of Fame in 2019, Marty’s expertise and passion for the fastener business have made him a respected figure in the industry. Marty collaborates closely with Buckeye Fasteners and Brainard Rivet Co. His exceptional skills and unwavering dedication have made a significant impact on the Buckeye Fasteners organization and the broader fastener community.

A Journey Rooted in Trust and Hard Work

Marty's path in the fastener industry began in 1986, and he has been running R.L. English Co. since 1992. While his official title is President, he considers himself a sales professional at heart, a role he has always enjoyed and continued to prioritize. Over the years, Marty has learned that success in this industry boils down to one essential principle: trust. “People like to do business with people they trust and can count on,” says Marty. For him, the foundation of any successful transaction is clear communication—accurate pricing, reliable delivery dates, and impeccable quality. “If we get an opportunity to quote, we need to tell the customer the price and delivery date. Quality should never be in question,” he emphasizes. Keeping these promises, along with building lasting relationships, has helped Marty drive growth at R.L. English.

An Ever-Changing Work Week

No two weeks are ever the same for Marty, which is part of what he loves about his job. Whether he's on the road making sales calls or collaborating with colleagues in the office, the constant variety keeps things exciting. Despite the unpredictable nature of the role, one thing remains consistent: growing sales. Marty is driven by the challenge and the opportunity to grow new business while maintaining existing customer relationships.

A Strong Partnership with Buckeye Fasteners

Marty’s long-standing relationship with Buckeye Fasteners is a testament to the power of collaboration in the industry. His connection with Buckeye began when he sold to the company before transitioning into representing their products. According to Marty, the process was simple: after years of working together, Buckeye's sales manager, Larry Kelly, asked why Marty didn’t represent their parts directly. From there, the partnership blossomed, and Marty continues to work closely with Buckeye—and their sister company, Brainard Rivet—helping them grow and reach new markets.

Beyond the Fasteners: A Musician at Heart

When he’s not focused on growing sales or collaborating with industry partners, Marty enjoys pursuing his creative side. During the downtime of the COVID-19 pandemic, he rediscovered his love for music. Pulling out his guitar, Marty started recording some of his original songs, which are now available on Spotify and YouTube. “It’s a great source of personal entertainment and a relaxing hobby,” he shares. Though his audience may be small, the joy of creating music remains a fulfilling part of his life.

Looking to the Future

As R.L. English continues to grow, Marty is excited about the potential for new opportunities, especially through his collaborations with Buckeye Fasteners, Brainard, and Die Co. "We talk frequently about how to grow new business and revive business that might have gone away," he says. Marty is particularly excited by the continuous investments in new equipment and facility upgrades that will position these companies for future success. For him, it's a sign of commitment to long-term growth and ensuring that the companies remain strong and competitive in the fastener industry.

Family, Travel, and More

Outside of work, Marty treasures time with his family, especially his two granddaughters who live just five minutes away. Traveling with his family—or enjoying a quiet getaway with his wife—are activities that recharge him and keep life in balance.

With his passion for sales, his dedication to the fastener industry, and his commitment to his family, Marty Nolan embodies the spirit of hard work, integrity, and the enduring relationships that drive success in both business and life.

Fun Fact: Marty’s father, Gil Nolan, was once a member of Modern Fasteners, continuing the family legacy in the fastener business!

Marty Nolan’s career is a testament to the power of trust, hard work, and relationship-building in the fastener industry. With over three decades of experience at R.L. English Co. and a passion for sales, Marty has earned his place in the Fastener Hall of Fame and continues to lead by example. His commitment to delivering on promises, maintaining strong partnerships—especially with Buckeye Fasteners—and embracing new opportunities for growth reflects his dedication to both his company and the industry as a whole. Looking to the future, his focus remains on fostering innovation, expanding sales, and ensuring a bright future for R.L. English and its partners. Marty’s journey is a perfect example of how dedication, integrity, and a personal touch can shape long-term success in the fastener world.