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.
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.
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.