Two Altorfer Ag Products Customers Named Finalists for AGCO’s Operator of the Year

AGCO’s Operator of the Year program is more than just the person with the largest acreage. They have passion, leadership, community involvement, and so many qualities that make them stand out.

Out of over 40 nominees, Altorfer Ag Products is proud to serve two of the four finalists in their operation.

Russ Krans | Wataga, Illinois

Russ Krans is the head operator of West Central FS in Wataga, IL. His machine of choice is a RoGator 1300 and uses it to tackle even the most difficult fields.

When he is not busy covering over 25,000 acres of land per year, Krans is deeply involved in his community. He has been a volunteer firefighter for the last 30 years and works as a road commissioner. Krans also holds the position of treasurer and a key-holder of his local church.

John Manning |  Newark, Illinois

John Manning is an operator and the shop manager of CHS Elburn in Newark, IL. He uses a RoGator 1074 and a TerraGator 8103 to apply more than 36,000 acres per year.

One of Manning’s main focuses is the quality of his work. After growing up farming with his father, he has gained a respect for the stewardship of the land he works on. Manning is also known for being able to fix his equipment right on the field, ensuring the most efficient work possible.

About AGCO’s Operator of the Year Program

AGCO’s Operator of the Year program just completed its twelfth year of recognizing hard working and dedicated individuals throughout the country. All contenders must be nominated and a panel reviews each nominee. All are recognized with a certificate, but the final four are guests at the Agricultural Retailers Association Conference & Expo where the winner is announced and receives the grand prize of a Harley Davidson motorcycle.

Although neither candidate took home the title, their hard work and dedication did not go unnoticed. Altorfer Ag Products would like to extend their sincerest appreciation and congratulations to not only Krans and Manning, but to all other operators who they get to serve every day.