Jerry Eastburn started in the construction equipment business in 1969 while finishing college at the University of Nebraska. After college he remained in the industry and in 1977 relocated to Albuquerque, N.M. with Road Machinery, where the company was heavily involved in large mining equipment in New Mexico and Arizona as well as construction equipment. In 1980 Road Machinery downsized and closed the New Mexico operation. Eastburn elected to remain in Albuquerque as his two daughters were well established in local schools. He then joined Border Machinery and remained in Albuquerque covering the New Mexico, Arizona, and El Paso, Texas locations. On July 1, 1988 Eastburn joined Roland Machinery and relocated to Springfield, Ill., retiring after 25 years on June 30, 2013.

“I have been asked many times why I remained in this industry and in Product Support for almost 45 years. The answer is easy, it’s the people. Our industry is built on relationships; the people we work with in the distributorship, the manufacturers we represent, and the customers we service. We must entrust our people with the responsibilities we give to them which, in turn, builds the mutual creditability that nurtures lasting relationships,” said Eastburn.

“Roland Machinery does just that. Ray, Matt, and Rachel (Roland) Pennell instill a family atmosphere and support with their people, customers, and manufacturers. I truly believe this is the company’s success today and will carry it into the future. I could not have been more proud than to work with the Roland family and the Roland Machinery team for the past 25 years. What a ride.”

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