Last month we introduced you to the newest member of the Quality staff, Koala T. Bear. This month, we bid a fond farewell to a long-standing member of Quality and the quality industry, our retiring publisher, Buck Bicek. Below are just a few of the sentiments from his friends and colleagues on his 30-plus years of service to our industry:

Congratulations to you, Buck, as you retire from what I can attest to as a wonderful, fulfilling, and rewarding career. Our past years together as a team bring back warm, happy memories.  May the days in your future bring you many more happy memories. With the “bestest” of regards — Barbara Grim

The success I had working with Buck Bicek at Quality Magazine was a result of collaboration, dedication, and mutual respect. Buck’s expertise and industry knowledge complemented my managerial skills, creating a dynamic partnership that led to remarkable achievements including the launch of The Quality Show in 2015. Together, we tackled challenges with strategic planning and innovative thinking, ensuring efficiency and outstanding results. Buck’s ability to inspire and his commitment to excellence motivated me to push beyond my limits. Our teamwork not only produced measurable success but also fostered personal and professional growth. Working with Buck was an invaluable experience that reinforced the power of collaboration and the impact of great leadership. Congratulations Buck on a great career! — Darrell Dal Pozzo

When I first stepped into a sales territory with Quality, Buck was the one who introduced me to clients and showed me the way. It’s been great working with Buck the past 12 years. Not just for his wealth of knowledge but also for the kind person that he is. I know his clients will miss him and so will I. — Nadine Graber

Buck Bicek has been a fixture at Quality the entire time I’ve been here. When I first joined Quality in 2005, he was part of the sales team. I always enjoyed crossing paths with him, whether it was meeting him and his wife for dinner in Germany after the CONTROL show, walking the show floor in Chicago at IMTS, or having a staff dinner in Nashville the night before The Quality Show South opened. I’ve always enjoyed working with him and hearing his stories. It’s been great having him on the Quality team, and I wish him well in retirement. — Michelle Bangert

Buck has been a tremendous asset to BNP Media. His knowledge and industry expertise will be missed. I sincerely thank him for his leadership of Quality Magazine and wish him all the best in his retirement. — Tagg Henderson

Good luck and best wishes from all of us at Quality!