BLOOMINGTON Minn. — Ritchie Engineering Co. Inc., which makes tools for HVACR professionals and is the company behind the Yellow Jacket brand, has named Eric Ruggles director of engineering and promoted Matt Ingold to national sales manager.

Ruggles is responsible for driving product strategy and development as well as contributing to the marketing and business strategy for the Yellow Jacket brand, a press release from Ritchie said.

“We are thrilled to welcome Eric to our team,” said Tom Ritchie, president of Ritchie Engineering. “He has a wealth of knowledge and experience in engineering that will serve our customers and brand very well.”

Ruggles comes to Ritchie with experience in commercial HVAC as well as in vehicle and engine heating, cooling, and electrification products, the press release said. He has held roles in field service, technical support, applications, design, development, and management. Ruggles holds four patents for the design of a battery-powered HVAC system for semi-trucks that is used to reduce truck engine idling.

Ingold joined Ritchie in 2018 as regional sales manager for the eastern region. In his new role, he will continue to manage the eastern region plus several national accounts and buying groups, the press release said.

“We look forward to continued growth in the HVACR industry with Matt as his career takes the next step,” said Gary Lampasona, Ritchie's vice president of sales and marketing.