AWARDS
I tell them exactly what Brodners is doing ," said Baum . " If they want to have success with robotics , they should be doing it the same way ."
His approach to robotics isn ’ t just about selling a product ; it ’ s about cultivating an ecosystem around this transformative technology . His willingness to invest in the infrastructure required to support robotic mowers , including storage for off-season units and offering maintenance updates for customers , has set him apart from other dealers . " I have just shy of 180 automowers in winter storage . I did updates on all of these last year and charged fees for it ," said Baum . This commitment to customer satisfaction is indicative of Mike ’ s leadership style — one that prioritizes long-term success and customer loyalty .
While Baum ’ s focus on robotics has garnered much attention , he has also emphasized the importance of diversification in the OPE industry . Brodner Equipment is known for offering a broad range of products , including propane-powered and battery-operated equipment . His philosophy of being selective with product offerings has helped the business avoid becoming overwhelmed with options to focus on quality service .
Baum ’ s plans for continued innovation in the OPE industry are clear . He ’ s already taken steps to introduce additional robotic solutions , such as the Segway Navimow robotic mower , and he remains committed to helping Brodner Equipment stay at the forefront of industry trends .
NEAL LACKRITZ
Sr . Director of Advanced Technology , AriensCo Neal Lackritz is shaping the future of the outdoor power equipment industry with his strong background in technology and innovation and the support of AriensCo ’ s leadership . Lackritz leads AriensCo ’ s advanced technology division , which was established 14 months ago to integrate cutting-edge technologies into OPE products . Under his guidance , the team is making strides in three key areas : autonomy , advanced safety systems , and telematics .
One of the team ’ s notable achievements includes a partnership with Greenzie to develop autonomous solutions for the commercial landscaping market . Looking ahead , AriensCo is set to launch an autonomous mower pilot project , and the company showed this at last fall ’ s Equip Expo . Lackritz and his team are also studying advanced safety and exploring ways to provide business owners with insights through telematics to maximize return on investment .
Lackritz brings a wealth of experience from outside the OPE industry , including years at Bose in the automotive division and with Apple ’ s Autonomous Systems Group . His background in robotics and advanced systems has positioned him perfectly to lead AriensCo ’ s push into new technological frontiers .
Reflecting on his leadership philosophy , Lackritz credits his time working with Dr . Amar Bose as a formative experience . “ When you
Neal Lackritz
spoke with Dr . Bose , he had this incredible gift of believing in your ability to succeed even more than you did yourself ,” said Lackritz . “ I try to bring that same approach to my teams .”
Lackritz is passionate about leveraging technology to empower commercial landscapers , a group he describes as often underestimated for their business acumen . By providing insights and optimization tools , he and his team aim to help landscapers enhance their operations and increase profitability .
“ What excites me is showing landscapers how data on product usage can be a powerful tool ,” he said . “ It ’ s motivating and empowering to help them unlock new efficiencies . Additionally , I see a significant opportunity for dealers to become consultative partners in this process , especially as regions like California mandate battery-powered solutions .”
Lackritz appreciates AriensCo ’ s unique position as a privately held company with the ability to take a long-term view on innovation . “ At Ariens , you can have discussions about 1-year , 2-year , and even 10-year horizons ,” he noted . “ That ’ s incredibly powerful , and it ’ s backed by the passion and vision of the family ownership .”
The investment AriensCo is making to build a technology team underscores its commitment to staying at the forefront of technological advancements . The company ’ s willingness to explore and invest in emerging technologies is a testament to its dedication to providing landscapers with innovative , high-quality products that boost productivity and efficiency .
www . OPE-Plus . com March 2025 OPE + 17