C & K Equipment Co. Inc., a family-owned used equipment dealer in Knoxville, TN, recently welcomed back Steve McCarter to its sales force.

Steve started with C & K Equipment in June 1990. After nine and a half years, he left to join the staff of LB Smith as general manager of the East Tennessee region. Four and a half years later, he has returned home.

“We are not only proud to have Steve back on board, but we are honored,” said Chuck Haynes, owner-president. “Steve is a man of great integrity, knowledge and action.”

“I am glad to be back,” said Steve, noting that he is excited to be part of C & K Equipment’s expansion. “Dealing with used equipment is what I do best. Even though I am no longer with LB Smith, I maintain a great relationship with them. They are really good people. I still work closely with them helping remarket some of their used equipment. They are one of my biggest customers.”

Charlie “Chuck” Haynes and his son, Keith Haynes, started C & K Equipment Co. Inc. in 1981. In 1984, Chuck’s son-in-law, Steve Widner, joined the company.

Chuck’s experience working with heavy equipment started while he was in the Army. After his military service, he worked for Caterpillar for approximately 17 years.

In 1973, Chuck opened Tracks & Rollers, and undercarriage shop, which he sold after four years. Soon after, he and his brother, Jacob, started Haynes Machinery Sales Inc. In 1980, Chuck sold his portion of the company to his brother, and he and his son, Keith, started C & K Equipment.

Keith’s experience working with heavy equipment began as a young teenager. During his summer vacation and other spare time he worked for his dad in his shops. After graduation, Keith tried a number of other professions, but came to realize the heavy equipment industry was what he enjoyed best and what he wanted to do. This is when he and his dad started C & K Equipment.

Steve Widner, who played for the Cleveland Indians, joined C & K Equipment as a partner in 1984. Steve has worked in all areas of the company, including sales, purchasing, repairs and everyday operations. He said what he enjoys most is overseeing the repairing and rebuilding of equipment and components. His current responsibilities include managing the shop and yard.

C & K Equipment buys, sells, rents and refurbishes all types of used heavy equipment. Even though C & K Equipment is not associated with any one manufacturer, the company works closely with Caterpillar and Volvo; however, it also deals with other brands. Africa, Canada and Mexico are just a few places Chuck mentioned when discussing the company’s customers.

“We sell all over the United States,” said Chuck. “Our goal is to have in inventory the right equipment to meet the market’s demands.”

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