The AED Foundation’s 10th Annual Gala & Live Auction Raises More than $485,000

The Associated Equipment Distributors Foundation (AEDF) celebrated the success of its 10th Annual Gala & Live Auction, held January 19 at the Hilton Anatole in Dallas during the AED 2026 Summit.

Presented by AEDF and RB Global, this year’s Gala embraced a new format, featuring a formal seated dinner, and carried the festive theme “Diamonds & Denim.” The event brought together over 650 industry leaders, members, and supporters from across the equipment industry, raising more than $485,000 to fund critical initiatives supporting workforce development, technical training, and industry research.

The evening was filled with camaraderie and generosity, featuring a live auction hosted by RB Global, a silent auction, and numerous networking opportunities. Proceeds from the Gala directly support the Foundation’s three pillars: accreditation and recognition, career promotion, and industry research.

AED Foundation Chairman Ron Barlet, president of Bejac Corp., reflected on the impact of the event, saying, “We are incredibly proud of the support shown by our members and industry partners. The success of this Gala really shows the strength and generosity of our industry. The funds raised will help the Foundation expand industry research, workforce development programs, support technical training and certifications, and ensure we have a skilled workforce for years to come.”

Awards for Outstanding Contributions

The Gala also recognized individuals and companies making outstanding contributions to the AED Foundation’s mission:

·        Foundation Partner Award: George Russell and Bill Hoeg, Machinery Advisors Consortium - honored for distinguished service and significant contributions to the Foundation’s professional education goals.

·        Foundation Champion Award: Eric Winkler, Hitachi Construction Machinery Americas Inc. - recognized for exceptional contributions to workforce development initiatives.

·        Lester J. Heath III Award: Karmen Warner, SkillsUSA Washington - celebrating outstanding support of the Foundation’s education, accreditation, and workforce programs.

·        VitalEdge Workforce Innovator Award: Ron Barlet, Bejac Corporation; Diane Benck, West Side Tractor Sales Co.; Walter Berry, Berry Companies Inc.; Bill Buckles, Murphy Tractor & Equipment Co. Inc.; Whit Perryman, Vermeer Texas-Louisiana; Jeffrey Scott, Scott Machinery Company; Ken Taylor, Ohio Cat; Tim Watters, Hoffman Equipment Co. - honoring those who championed workforce initiatives and advanced the AED Foundation Vision campaign.

Vikram Savkar, CEO of VitalEdge, emphasized the real-world impact of these efforts, noting that “every call, every conversation, and every commitment turns into real progress—more accredited programs, stronger advocacy for federal investment, and more students inspired. Every bid in the Silent and Live Auctions helps advance our mission to ensure a skilled, prepared workforce for the equipment industry.”

The Gala also recognized the 2026 AED Foundation Knapheide Technicians of the Year, honoring outstanding technicians from across North America for their expertise, dedication, and contributions to the field.

·        Shawn Hardy, Finning, West Canada Region

·        Coker Moeller, RDO Equipment Co., Great Lakes Region

·        Joshua Baraga, Ohio CAT, Midwest Region

·        Dana Cameron, Frank Martin Sons Inc., Northeast Region

·        Christopher Lejeune, Ditch Witch of South Louisiana, South Central Region

·        Zach Hickman, Bobcat of Knoxville, Southeast Region

·        Andrew Taylor, Thompson Machinery, Southeast Region

·        Austin Fischer, Shafer Equipment Company, Inc., West Region

·        Blair Pollard, Kensington Agricultural Service Ltd., Eastern Canada

Chris Rolsen, Knapheide Vice President of Fleet Sales, highlighted the importance of these skilled professionals, saying, “Technicians don’t just repair what’s broken — they keep businesses and communities moving forward. Today we celebrate their pride, precision, and perseverance, and we are proud to recognize their hard work through the AEDF Technicians of the Year Awards.”

Proceeds from the Gala will continue to support technical training programs, accreditation at high schools and colleges, and critical industry research, helping to maintain a robust pipeline of skilled professionals for the future.