In 1975, Ray and Jo Ellen Eakins founded Ray-Man in rural southeast Iowa with a focus on producing durable, feature-rich fertilizer equipment for the agriculture industry. With innovative equipment features and advanced manufacturing processes, Ray-Man has emerged as a leading manufacturer of fertilizer equipment over the past 50 years.
THE BEGINNING OF RAY-MAN
Ray Eakins came from humble beginnings in rural southeast Iowa. In his early years, he relocated to Keota to work as a chemical sprayer. This job is where he met his wife, Jo Ellen. Once he learned more about the chemical spraying industry, he started his first business - Keota Chemical. After owning Keota Chemical for a period of time, he discovered that there was a need for high-quality fertilizer equipment. So, he decided to start building it himself. Ray was a talented welder, and taught himself how to design equipment from scratch. He started by building feed equipment and floater loaders, and eventually tender boxes.
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Before computers, Ray would design equipment with a drafting table and piece of paper. Once computers became available, he taught himself how to use a CAD program to design. Ray loved to learn, and was always looking for ways to improve equipment and the business to better support Ray-Man customers. Ray's desire for innovation and passion for learning is evident at Ray-Man to this day.
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As the fertilizer industry has evolved over the years, so has Ray-Man equipment.
PROUD TO BE FAMILY OWNED
At Ray-Man, we are proud to be a family-owned and operated business for over 50 years. A commitment to quality, integrity, and customer satisfaction has been passed down through generations, and we take pride in continuing that legacy. ​Being a family-owned business, at Ray-Man we understand the importance of building long-lasting relationships with our customers.
Our dedicated team strives to provide the best possible service and products to meet the needs of the agriculture industry.​ What started with the values of Ray and Jo Ellen Eakins in 1975 continues to this day: a strong work ethic, providing exceptional customer service, and manufacturing a high-quality product built to last. These values are instilled in the second and third-generation Eakins family members working at Ray-Man today.
THE EAKINS FAMILY
Meet the Eakins family members who currently own and operate Ray-Man. Each individual has a unique skillset to provide, and is ready to help you with your equipment. Feel free to reach out at anytime with the contact information below.