For more than 60 years, Fresno Equipment Company has served the Central Valley’s farming community as a dealer of John Deere products and other agricultural equipment. The company was founded in 1961 by Mark Vucovich and William Hansen, with initial locations in Fresno, Five Points, and Firebaugh. Within two years, Vucovich became the sole owner, establishing a family legacy that continues today.
The FOBA awards program took place at Pardini’s in Fresno on August 19. Stories about the winners will be featured online by The Business Journal in the coming days.
In 1967, Fresno Equipment sold its Firebaugh store to streamline operations. The business grew as Vucovich’s children joined in the 1970s. In 1998, it opened a new 46,000 square-foot facility to support its continued growth in the region’s agriculture industry.
In 2010, Baker, Peterson & Franklin named Fresno Equipment Ag Business of the Year. Later that year, leadership passed to Marsha Vucovich, who remains CEO. She is joined by her son Reid Pinion, General Manager Joseph Ayerza, and Sales Manager Jimmy Perry. Together they manage nearly 100 employees across locations in Fresno and Five Points.
“Our business is more than just a company, it’s a reflection of our family’s values, perseverance, and commitment to serving our community,” said Vucovich. “Being recognized would be a tribute to everyone who has contributed to our journey and success for more than 60 years.”
Fresno Equipment supports local organizations such as the Ag One Foundation, Fresno County Farm Bureau, Nisei Farmers League and California Ag Leadership Foundation. The company also funds scholarships for FFA and 4-H programs and hosts educational workshops for students and growers.
Marsha Vucovich established an endowment at Fresno State in honor of her father to continue supporting agricultural professionals.
Reid Pinion has served with Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) and worked with Leadership Fresno on projects like Valley Teen Ranch’s Sierra Crossing project—a recently completed affordable housing complex for young adults and families in the area.
