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After more than two decades at the helm, Roy Link has stepped down as the Executive Committee chair of the SAE Brake Colloquium & Exhibition, a key event within the brake industry. Link, a central figure in automotive engineering, played a pivotal role in driving the event’s growth and establishing international standards for brake testing. With a legacy rooted in engineering innovation, Roy Link’s departure marks the end of an era for the annual Brake Colloquium and Exhibition, which now gathers over 700 key industry participants.
Key Highlights:
- Roy Link stepped down as Brake Colloquium Executive Committee chair after more than 20 years.
- Link’s career is rooted in engineering and innovation, with significant contributions to SAE International.
- The Brake Colloquium has grown to attract over 700 participants, inspired by the vision of its founding members.
- Link’s son, Adam Link, is also actively involved in continuing the legacy of the Brake Colloquium.
Link’s Engineering Legacy
Engineering has always been in Roy Link’s blood. His father, Herbert Link, immigrated to the United States from Germany in 1926, seeking opportunity during difficult economic times. Initially planning only a temporary stay, Herbert established Link Engineering Company in 1935. Starting from a basement, LINK grew from manufacturing tap wrenches to developing spring testing devices and electric motor repair services. As the company evolved, Roy was deeply involved in expanding LINK’s reach and capabilities.
After graduating from Michigan State University with a BS in mechanical engineering and an MBA in personnel management, Roy joined LINK in 1970, officially making it a family business. In 1989, he was named CEO and president, overseeing LINK’s transformation into a global leader of specialty equipment and innovative testing solutions. Today, he serves as chairman, while his sons Matt and Adam continue to lead as president and CTO, respectively.
SAE Involvement and Community Contributions
Beyond his leadership at LINK, Roy Link actively contributed to SAE International, recognizing the importance of standardized testing in the industry. “My first involvement with SAE came after joining LINK,” he said. “As manufacturers of advanced test systems, we had a very critical interest in the test procedures and testing standards which were established and maintained by SAE.” His involvement included roles such as the Friction Material Characterization Task Force chair and a representative for international standards.
His dedication also extended beyond business. Link was a longtime supporter of the SAE Foundation, aiming to inspire future engineers. He chaired the Young Engineers Council at the Engineering Society of Detroit and served on the Michigan State University School of Engineering advisory board. In 2008, he was honored as an SAE Fellow, recognizing his leadership in brake test technology.
The Growth of the Brake Colloquium
The SAE Brake Colloquium and Exhibition has grown significantly from its humble beginnings at the Ford Technical Center in 1977, which gathered around 100 industry members. The event was initially intended as a forum for engineers to share experiences, discuss challenges, and deliver technical presentations. It has since become a major annual event, gathering key stakeholders from across the brake industry in North America and beyond. Today, it is considered a primary venue for forging new opportunities and maintaining relationships.
“The Brake Colloquium is the primary annual event for the braking industry in the U.S./North America space,” said Rob Mangan, director of equipment sales at LINK. Roy’s leadership over the past decades has helped foster these connections, and his departure is both a reflection of a successful career and a handover to the next generation of leaders in the industry.
A New Era Begins
During the 42nd annual Brake Colloquium and Exhibition in September, Roy Link announced his departure, passing the reins to Dr. Greg Vyletel. Though stepping down, Link expressed confidence in the strength of the current executive board and shared his willingness to remain engaged in supporting the industry. His son, Adam, also remains involved, recently co-organizing the Testing and Measurement Methods for New Braking Technologies session.
As a message for future leaders, Roy stated, “I would advise that the future chairs always seek out the key and the brightest members of our industry to present at the colloquium, to ensure that they will inspire discussions needed by all. Look for the latest technology, consult with executives from around the world. Bring people together.”
The original article by Gretchen Uhrinek of SAE International can be found here.
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