Ditch Witch Southwest in Lubbock, Texas, has announced new ownership. The third since Giff Glover opened for business in the mid-1960s. The second owner, Jim K. Smith, took over in 1990, carrying the dealership through 19 years of economic ups and downs.

Smith’s retirement has put the dealership in the hands of Dustin Thane and Ashlee Thane.

The brother and sister acquired the dealership on June 1 and will serve as president and vice president respectively. In addition, they will be responsible for all aspects of managing and operating the company on a day-to-day basis. Dustin and Ashlee have roots in the construction equipment business. Each grew up working summers, holidays and weekends at their father’s utility construction company.

Since graduating from Lubbock Christian University in 2002 with an Accounting degree, Dustin has spent the last seven years working as an accountant for Phillips and Associates, CPAs in Lubbock. The firm specializes in accounting and tax preparation for general construction, paving and utility contractors. Dustin was involved in providing the compilation, review and auditing of financial statements. Dustin’s construction and accounting background combined with his work ethic makes him an ideal leader for Ditch Witch Southwest. He and his wife Amy have three children, Hannah, Ellie and Eli.

Ashlee graduated from Texas Tech University in May 2007 with a Finance degree. She immediately joined the “Ditch Witch Family” by working at The Charles Machine Works Inc. in Perry, Okla., starting out as an intern. She worked in the finance department, managing the Ditch Witch Platinum Plus Accounts as well as doing special projects for CFO. Ashlee simultaneously worked on a Masters of Business Administration graduating in May of 2009. Ashlee’s background with CMW Inc. is an asset in dealing with all aspects of Ditch Witch Southwest sales and customer service.

Ditch Witch is a leader in the design and manufacturing of high-quality underground construction equipment. The company provides a complete product line for the installation of underground utilities. The Ditch Witch Southwest team is dedicated in assisting customers with all their product needs including finance and lease options.

For more information, call 800/882-8141 or visit www.ditchwitchsouthwest.com.