Happy Birthday Maintainer!

by Shelley Morris – 

Maintainer is celebrating 50 years in business throughout 2026. Starting out as a local flatbed “shop on wheels” concept in 1976, no one would have thought that it would grow into what it has today. Like most small businesses, there were many times when the future was uncertain, and the direction unclear. It took faith and commitment in those early years, and a heck of a lot of dedication from ownership and team members to stay the course, when the course was anything but clear. Some things have remained consistent, however; paying attention to the details, focusing on the customer (quality and service), and always, always- doing the right thing. It’s a formula that works.

Of course, we would not be here if it were not for the dedication and commitment of the team. Not many 50-year-old companies have employees that have been here from (almost) the beginning, but we’ve been blessed with many. Some of those team members are familiar faces, while others work behind the scenes. Some are truly the face of the business. Many others have left their “fingerprints” all over the product. It is often said that the people make a company, and that is very evident at Maintainer.

The Van Wyk family has owned Maintainer outright for 30 years. Before that, they were investor/partners. As owners, they have always supported the business and the growth we have enjoyed over the years. During major economic downturns, their commitment never waivered; believing in the product, the people, and the leadership to stay the course. In 1996, they hired Denny Michels as President and CEO, who not only guided the company, but was my mentor for years prior to retiring eight years ago. I am proud to carry forth the legacy in the years ahead.

We will celebrate our 50th over the course of the next 12 months, starting at Con Expo and NTEA, then peaking in early June as we come together with Dealers, customers, suppliers, employees, family, and communities to commemorate this milestone. There’s more to come, but we hope that you can join us in the first week of June! We haven’t pinned down the final details, but we will culminate with a community celebration on Thursday June 4th. As partners, you have contributed greatly to our success, and we hope you can join us.

God has blessed us. Our future has never looked brighter. I won’t see another 50 years, but I know if work trucks still exist in 50 years, we’ll be there.