"Founding and growing the old American dream: An entrepreneur's journey"
Randy Lyne, bba '72
Owner and CEO
Preferred Pump and Equipment, Inc.
Randy Lyne, bba ’72, started his journey to the “old American dream” 35 years ago when he started his own business. He now considers providing a healthy work environment and solid future to more than 500 employees and their families as his proudest accomplishment.
Lyne established Preferred Pump & Equipment in Fort Worth, Texas, in 1982. The company is the largest United States wholesaler of pumps, water well equipment and accessories. Along with the business side, Preferred Pump assists numerous non-profit groups in installing wells and water supply systems in underdeveloped countries. They also support charities that provide water systems in rural America. Lyne is past chair of American Ground Water Trust and the Water Systems Council. He is a life member of the National Ground Water Association.
Lyne started at Washburn soon after the tornado of 1966. He remembers how the University maintained the quality of its educational offering, even though he took classes in portable trailers. After working in Kansas City and obtaining an MBA from Rockhurst University, he moved to Texas to start his company. He is now married with five children and seven grandchildren.
MORE INFORMATION
- In conjunction with the Washburn University School of Business, the Alumni Association has sponsored the Wake Up With Washburn breakfast lecture series since 1993, providing a forum to highlight alumni accomplishments and connect with the Washburn family and Topeka community.
- Each program begins with a breakfast at 7:30 a.m. in the Convocation Hall of Bradbury Thompson Alumni Center.
- Each breakfast lecture costs $10 for members of the Alumni Association and $13 for non-members.
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