Great equipment starts with great people. That’s why we’re fortunate to have so many outstanding employees here at Takeuchi-US. At our North American headquarters in Pendergrass, Georgia and our track loader assembly facility in Moore, South Carolina, we rely on dedicated teams to keep things running smoothly.
Each year, we recognize employees who go above and beyond in their commitment to excellence and the “Takeuchi Way”—emphasizing quality, customer satisfaction and environmental sustainability. Our 2025 employee awards highlight four individuals who are making a meaningful impact across both facilities.
“Our employees are truly key to our success,” said Jeff Stewart, president of Takeuchi-US. “Across our facilities, you’ll find people who not only care about building a great equipment brand, but who also care about each other, our dealers and our customers.”
Georgia Employee of the Year: Ron Holmes
Warehouse Operations Manager, Pendergrass, Georgia
Ron Holmes plays a key role in keeping parts moving efficiently at Takeuchi’s Pendergrass facility. As warehouse operations manager, he oversees daily operations in the parts warehouse, including coordinating with team leads, managing shipping and receiving, and supporting the needs of warehouse employees.
Over his seven years with the company, Holmes has built a reputation for reliability and hands-on leadership in a fast-paced environment. When he’s not at work, he enjoys running, hiking and spending time with his granddaughters.
“My favorite thing about working for Takeuchi is interacting with the employees on the floor,” Holmes said.
South Carolina Employee of the Year: Gene Williams
Training Coordinator, Moore, South Carolina
Gene Williams has spent the past four years helping develop employees at Takeuchi’s Moore assembly facility. As a training coordinator within the process engineering department, his role sits at the intersection of people development and operational excellence. He wants to ensure every employee has the knowledge and confidence to do their job safely and effectively.
Being part of Takeuchi’s first North American manufacturing facility has made his work especially meaningful.
“Being connected to a global brand known for excellence is humbling,” Williams said. “But what makes my role especially meaningful is knowing I’ve had a hand in helping build something that will support the company’s future.”
Outside of work, Williams enjoys spending time on the basketball court, behind the grill and teaching in his faith community.
Wiley Hutto Legacy Award: Brittney Howell
IT, Pendergrass, Georgia
Brittney Howell has spent 12 years supporting Takeuchi’s dealers and internal teams through her work in IT. Her day-to-day responsibilities include resolving dealer issues, setting up new portal accounts and ensuring manuals and other key resources are updated and easily accessible.
It’s work that keeps both internal teams and dealers connected and supported behind the scenes.
In her free time, Howell enjoys painting and gardening, and she values the strong sense of connection she’s found within the company.
“I have always felt like Takeuchi is my second family and there for me when I need them,” Howell said.
Salesperson of the Year: Paul Wade
Dealer Development Manager, Pendergrass, Georgia
With nearly 10 years at Takeuchi, Paul Wade has played an important role in growing and strengthening the company’s dealer network. He recently transitioned from regional business manager to dealer development manager, where he now focuses on identifying new dealers in open markets while continuing to support dealer growth.
In his previous role, Wade worked closely with dealers to help expand their business and increase equipment sales, building strong relationships along the way.
After hours, he enjoys spending time with family and attending sporting events and concerts.
“Everyone is great to work with, and we’re all working toward one goal,” Wade said.
Looking Ahead
As we continue to invest in our people, products and manufacturing capabilities, employees like these are helping drive that momentum forward.
From supporting dealers and customers to building out new operations and training the next generation of employees, their contributions play a direct role in shaping what’s next for Takeuchi in North America.
Please join us in thanking all our great employees for all their hard work and dedication!