A Lifetime of Dedication: Honoring Wes Stowers, Chairman of Stowers Machinery
A Legacy of Leadership at Stowers Machinery
In the world of heavy machinery, few names resonate as deeply as Wes Stowers, Chairman of Stowers Machinery, the local Caterpillar dealership that has been a cornerstone of East Tennessee’s infrastructure growth for decades. This year, Wes was honored with the prestigious Lifetime of Love award at Sertoma’s annual Friendship Dinner, a recognition reserved for those whose support for the organization has been truly extraordinary.
A Family Business Rooted in Growth
Stowers Machinery, a family-owned enterprise, has been a significant player in the construction and industrial sectors since Wes’s father and his two brothers purchased the Caterpillar dealership. The company has grown exponentially over the past 20 years, expanding by over 300%. Today, with six locations and over 500 employees, Stowers Machinery is a key player in the region’s economy, offering over 300 models of machinery and power generation products to meet diverse construction and energy needs. Recently, Wes transitioned from his role as President and CEO, passing the torch to his daughter, Lisa Rottman, who now leads the company as President and CEO.
A Journey from Military Service to Business Leadership
Wes’s journey to the helm of the family business is rooted in a legacy of service and dedication. After graduating from the Air Force Academy, Wes served as a pilot, flying F-4s and instructing other service members on the F-4 and T-38. In 1988, after leaving the Air Force, Wes joined Stowers Machinery, eventually becoming president in 1993. His military background, shared by his father, grandfather, and uncles, instilled in him values of discipline and leadership that he carried into his business career.
A People-Oriented Leadership Philosophy
Wes’s leadership philosophy is deeply people-oriented. A firm believer in taking care of the team, he prioritizes their well-being above all else. He believes that by supporting his team, they, in turn, will provide exceptional service to customers. Wes is known for his approach to leadership—holding staff accountable, counseling in private, and praising in public—a strategy that fosters morale and loyalty within his team.
A Commitment to Community and Sertoma
Wes’s commitment to community service is equally impressive. He became familiar with Sertoma through his work with Becky Duncan-Massey, the former Executive Director of Sertoma, on a local softball league. Over the years, Wes has been a steadfast supporter of Sertoma, inspired by the organization’s mission to provide purpose and independence to adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. His admiration for Sertoma’s stewardship and the genuine care shown by its employees further motivates his continued support.
A Rich Personal Life
Beyond his professional and philanthropic endeavors, Wes enjoys a fulfilling personal life. Married to his wife, Liz, for 47 years, the couple has two daughters, Lisa and Rachel, and five grandchildren. Wes still finds time to indulge in his passion for flying, piloting his WWII plane, and traveling with Liz.
Wes’s story is one of dedication, both to his family and to his community. His contributions to Sertoma have made a lasting impact, and his leadership at Stowers Machinery continues to shape the landscape of East Tennessee. As we honor Wes Stowers with the Lifetime of Love award, we celebrate not just his achievements, but his unwavering commitment to making the world a better place for everyone.
