The 4th annual class of Shortline Legends Hall of Fame inductees has been announced by Farm Equipment. And is equally impressive as the 16 recipients inducted in the industry’s first three classes of Legends.

The program was initiated by Farm Equipment editors to properly record — for posterity — the individuals whose innovations most impacted the ag machinery and dealer distribution industry in North America over the last 55 years. It honors the innovators and inventions of the independent ag equipment manufacturer.

This year’s Farm Equipment’s Shortline Legend Hall of Fame recipients are … In order of appearance:

• Gregg Sauder
• Harley Summers
• Jim Hellbusch
• Ricky Brown
• Gerry Bourgault

This program, along with other Farm Equipment award programs (Dealership of the Year, Most Valuable Precision Dealer, etc.), accomplishes three important goals. First is to point out the benchmark-worthy operations from which the entire industry can learn. Second is to remind all, and especially the newcomers, of what is possible in a mature industry, despite the often daunting challenges. And third, to remember the shoulders on whom we all stand today. 

2026 Shortline Legends Video Series

The 2026 Shortline Legends Hall of Fame video series is sponsored by the Farm Equipment Manufacturers Assn. To view the series, visit Farm-Equipment.com/2026ShortlineHOF

This class will be recognized during the 2026 Farm  Equipment Manufacturers Assn. (F EMA) and Equipment Marketing Distribution Assn. (EMDA) Joint Convention Oct. 27-29, in New Orleans. 

If you would like to nominate a deserving shortline equipment pioneer that made a lasting and game-changing impact on the North American ag equipment industry, visit Farm-Equipment.com/HOFNominate.