About Us

Meet our Staff

Dave Long Protective Products, Inc. is run by three employees—Andy Long, Jeff Richardson and Robin Michaelis, all of whom have years of experience in the business.

Andy Long is head of sales, artwork, design and fabrication following in his father’s foot steps and adding his own mark on the company. He is usually out in the field taking measurements, working on estimates and meeting with clients.

Jeff Richardson manufacturers all of our awnings and assists with installation. He also specializes in marine and specialty covers. If you need a boat cover or specialty tarp this is the guy to speak with. Jeff has worked for Dave Long Protective Products since 1981.

Robin Michaelis takes care of the office. She answers customer inquires, handles billing, advertising and donation issues.

Last but not least, Boots (the shop dog) lets us know when people arrive, though she is often found snoozing!

History of Dave Long Protective Products, Inc.

Dave Long Protective Products is a family owned and operated business founded by Dave and Karen Long in 1970. Dave started the business in the basement of their home. With one sewing machine and a cutting table, he sewed by day and went to his full time job at night. They eventually moved to a building behind Deli-mart on Hwy 1.

In 1988 Dave and Karen bought a farm just outside of Iowa City with the intention of eventually relocating the business there. In 1997 that idea became a reality. Dave and Karen built an industrial size shop on their own land, affording Dave Long Protective Products the needed space to grow.

In 2004 Dave retired, relinquishing the helm to his son Andy Long, employee Jeff Richardson and niece Robin Michaelis under the watchful eye of Karen. Karen retired in 2008 and since then Robin has taken over her responsibilities as secretary and book keeper. However, Dave & Karen are still involved as owners and consultants. It’s not unusual to find Dave back at work in the shop or sipping coffee at the break table. Sometimes he’s the first to arrive in the morning—already with a pot of coffee on. Retirement didn’t mean slow down for Dave, as there is always a project he is working on.

Over the past 40 years Dave and Karen have built an Iowa-wide reputation for providing top quality products and excellent service. Their company also has a reputation for doing business locally with a mind for the environment—whenever possible, buying from USA based companies and reconditioning awning frames. Today, under the management of their son, Andy, Dave Long Protective Products continues to flourish.

Community Involvement

We love our community and are highly committed to helping others in it. Dave continues to volunteer for a number of local organizations and charities in our community. Please follow the links to see how you can make a difference!

Iowa City Police Department Shop with a Cop

University of Iowa Children’s Hospital

Local Foods Connection

Children’s Miracle Network

Special Olympics Iowa

Iowa City Animal Care and Adoption Center

Salvation Army

Iowa City Schools Athletic Boosters