Air Tractor marks 50th year at gala

Approximately 500 guests gathered Friday, May 31, to commemorate Air Tractor’s 50 years as the leading agricultural aircraft manufacturer.

Kristin Snow Edwards opened the evening by acknowledging Air Tractor’s milestones and nodding to the people who have been in partnership with them for past 50 years.

“So, over the last several months, as I’ve dug into all the old photos, read Leland’s book, again, looked at the Air Tractor milestones and all the history, the one thing that I’ve noticed, is the longevity and the continuity of the relationships that have been built over this last 50 years. Whether it’s our employees, our dealers, our customers, or our vendor partners, we all have a shared history,” Ms. Edwards said.

Mrs. Edwards set the tone for the eve- ning with gratitude to God and the people who ushered Air Tractor into 50 years of success.

“We will reflect on our company’s past, and the people who have brought us to this milestone event. This includes all of you who are here tonight, and many others who are no longer with us. But more importantly, I want to recognize the plans and provisions of God who brought together the talents of Leland and all of these people to fulfill a divine purpose. God has provided us all with the opportunities, the challenges and the blessings to carry out our company’s mission to help feed and clothe the world and to protect our natural resources,” she said.

The introduction was followed by Air Tractor Chief Financial Officer Jeremy Prather, who was appointed to the position in September 2020. He said that although he did not have the privilege of meeting Leland Snow, he felt he knew him from all the stories of the employees and suppliers. He shared that he moved to Olney to accept the position after falling in love with the Air Tractor video on YouTube.

“I just love everything there is about this company. And I love the vision that Leland had for the product and for the people. And I think that vision will stand the test of time,” Mr. Prather said.

Guests enjoyed music, a catered meal, and celebratory fireworks to end the evening. For more information about Air Tractor, visit the company website, www.airtractor. com.