For Immediate Release
EASTON, MD — June 10, 2026
B/R Instrument proudly recognizes and thanks Richard Roark, Sr., (Rich) for his lifetime of dedication, leadership, and service as President and CEO as he resigns the role of President and steps into an advisory and support role. Matt Baer, a 10-year veteran of B/R Instrument, replaces Rich as President, effective June 1, 2026.
Throughout his years leading the company, Rich helped guide B/R Instrument through decades of industry growth, technological advancement, and expanding international engagement while maintaining the company’s commitment to quality and customer relationships. Rich has played a significant role in the continued growth and success of B/R Instrument, carrying forward a company legacy that began with his father, Roger Roark, Sr., who co-founded B/R Instrument alongside Harry Brown in 1966.
The company’s name itself reflects that partnership: Brown / Roark = B/R. Originally founded as a manufacturer of general laboratory glassware, B/R Instrument began specializing in spinning band distillation systems in 1968 under a DuPont patent. Under the leadership and stewardship of the Roark family, the company built a reputation for precision engineering, technical expertise, and dependable equipment trusted by customers across the United States and around the world.
“All of us at B/R wish Rich a long and happy retirement surrounded by friends and family, it is well deserved. We look forward to carrying his legacy forward as we continue to serve B/R customers around the world,” said Matt Baer, B/R President.
B/R Instrument extends its sincere gratitude to Rich for his many years of commitment, leadership, and dedication to the company and its customers.
About B/R Instrument
Founded in 1966 by Roger Roark, Sr., and Harry Brown, B/R Instrument provides precision-driven laboratory distillation and instrumentation solutions for scientific, industrial, and technical applications. Known for reliability, technical expertise, and long-term customer partnerships, B/R Instrument continues to serve customers around the world with high-quality distillation equipment and support.
For more information, visit www.brinstrument.com.
Media Contact
Kendra Sanders
Sales and Marketing Manager
B/R Instrument Corporation
410-820-8800
kendra.sanders@brinstrument.com