In Memoriam: Tim Herrmann

Tim Herrmann, a beloved father, brother, friend and husband, passed away on April 13 at age 64. A well-known figure in the NYC elevator industry, Herrmann previously worked for ECI-EDI and National Elevator Cab and Door Corp. (NECD) and was in the industry for more than 30 years. At NECD, Herrmann served as vice president of operations responsible for engineering, production and field operations. “Tim was a true expert in elevator cabs, and he operated at the peak of the ‘A’ building market in NYC — the place with the most customized, exotic elevators,” NECD CEO Jeff Friedman said. In addition to an engineer’s eye, Herrmann also possessed the “hands of a mechanic,” Friedman said. Once parts were designed and manufactured, Herrmann could stand among the workers and show them how to put the parts together efficiently. “One of his last major projects was how to handle the massive, edge-lit rear walls intended for the 59 passenger elevators at One World Trade Center (1 WTC),” Friedman said. “Tim’s immediate concerns about the design were proven correct, and his suggestions still have a place in one of the world’s most iconic buildings.” All the elevator cabs and 1,200 entrances at 1 WTC were delivered on time, and the first-of-their-kind shrouds Herrmann shepherded into existence helped the elevator contractor meet rigorous acoustic and ride-quality specifications, remembers Friedman. Herrmann “drove his team hard to get the best results, and he gave even more of himself, because elevator cabs were his passion.”