A Successful Businessman with a Multi-Generational Vision

Last week, at a trade show, my father and I heard an outstanding presentation by Bob Walker, President of Walker Mowers., one of the top manufacturers of commercial lawn mowers. Mr. Walker told the audience about his company’s commitment to family friendly business; Walker Mowers is an independent, family owned business. Money is not the bottom line as it is with most investor-run corporations. What’s more is that they have a multi-generational vision. Mr. Walker, along with his brother, are getting their children involved in the business so they will be prepared to take it over and carry it on to the next generation. This is very unusual in this day and age. Most people do not think more than a few weeks into the future, yet Mr. Walker is thinking about the next generation! Impressive.

All the Walker mowers are made in the USA; they do not outsource labor to foreign countries. Second, they do not have their factory operating around the clock; there is only one nine-hour shift. Mr. Walker said they believe strong families make good employees which makes a good company. He said families can’t be very strong if the employees are working night shifts. I like that philosophy.

Mr. Walker is a professing Christian, and he’s not ashamed to make that known. I think he would be an excellent speaker for Vision Forum’s Entrepreneurial Bootcamp! Comments anyone?