The North American Equipment Dealers Association (NAEDA) fundraising clay shoot, held last Friday at Milford Hills in Johnson Creek, Wisconsin, was more than just a day of shooting clays. It was a respite from the rigors of harvest season for equipment dealers, a chance to bond, and a opportunity to support a worthy cause. The event raised money for NAEDA’s Equipment Dealers Foundation, which provides scholarships to students pursuing degrees or technical certificates within the equipment industry.
The day was filled with shooting, hamburgers, brats, and beers, offering technicians and parts and service managers a chance to recharge. As Nick Rust, precision ag coordinator at H&R Agri-Power, once noted, bonding in non-work settings is crucial for developing relationships. This sentiment echoed throughout the event, as dealers and industry professionals came together for a day of camaraderie.
The Farm Equipment/Precision Farming Dealer crew also participated, with two teams joining the competition. The final scorecard saw Mike Lessiter, Editor/Publisher, top the chart with 48, followed by Jeff Lazewski, Creative/Design Services Manager, with 39. Drew Lessiter, Events Planner, scored 29, Kim Schmidt, Executive Editor, put up a respectable 26 in her first-ever shooting experience, Scott Names, VP Finance/Administration, scored 22, Mike Elton of Advantage Plus Financing scored 20, and Noah Newman, Technology Editor, scored 7. While no prizes were awarded for the lowest score, it was a day of fun and friendly competition.
Tom Healy, director of dealer development for NAEDA, shared key dealer insights at the event, which will be featured in an upcoming episode of On the Record. NAEDA represents over 3,500 equipment dealers across North America, many of whom are competitors. However, events like these bring them together for a common cause, fostering a sense of community and support.
The implications of such events are significant. They provide a platform for industry professionals to network, share insights, and build relationships that extend beyond the workplace. Moreover, the funds raised support the next generation of equipment industry professionals, ensuring the continued growth and innovation of the sector. As the industry faces challenges such as labor shortages and technological advancements, these connections and investments in education are more important than ever. The clay shoot was not just a day of fun; it was a step towards strengthening the equipment dealer community and securing its future.