During the Leadership Exchange held on Jan. 18-20 in Las Vegas; The Far West Equipment Dealers Association (FWEDA) announced Mark Berchtold of Berchtold Equipment Co as the recipient of the 2022 Presidents Award. Mark “grew up” at Berchtold Equipment and is currently preparing the next generation of the family business with his son Joseph. 

President’s Award recipients are recognized by peers for their outstanding achievements and contributions to the equipment industry, and Mark is no exception. He has been a leader in working with other dealers from across many states. He was proud to help maintain a fiscally sound association, and help enhance the legislative environment for dealers through AB 585 with the incorporation of the Dealer Protection Act. He visited Washington D.C. and met with legislators regarding topics important to equipment dealers. He has been proud to remain a part of the association and efforts on behalf of all equipment dealers. 

Mark was born and raised in Bakersfield, CA. He attended parochial and public schools, New Mexico Military Institute for Jr. College, and Cal State University Bakersfield as his “formal” education, but most of the education that serves him in business today came from just growing up in a family business. After college, he became a full-time employee in 1974. 

Berchtold Equipment Co., originally Berchtold Grain and Implement, was created in 1910 by Mark’s grandfather, Joseph. His father, E.G., was called home to continue the business after WWII and with his wife, Frankie, ran it until 2008 when Mark and his wife, Beth, were able to purchase it. 

Mark is proud of his family and his development of the business. Beth, Julia, Katrina, and Joseph support Mark in the dealership with Joseph entering a full-time role in 2021. Mark and Beth have planned for the succession and growth of BeCo into the 4th generation and beyond. 

Mark was able to build upon the successes of his predecessors, to develop BeCo (as it is also branded), into an industry leader of 90+ employees, 3 stores, and has maintained a diverse lineup of products. 

We extend our warmest congratulations to Mark on receiving this well-deserved award and for an outstanding career.