The leadership trio of Bob Wilkerson, Ward Bushnell, and Bob Brown fostered Genie’s culture and led Genie’s growth and expansion throughout the company’s first decades.
Genie celebrated its 60th anniversary on September 12, 2026, marking six decades since Bud Bushnell founded the company in Seattle, Washington.
Genie began in September 1966 with the Genie Hoist, a material lift described by the company as a simple but innovative product. The company has since grown alongside the equipment industry and its customers, with Genie equipment now used on jobsites around the world.
Genie President Josh Gross said the company’s development over the past six decades has been shaped by its customers and industry partners.
"Across Genie, we are incredibly proud to celebrate this milestone," said Gross. "Genie's leadership in the industry has been defined by a strong partnership with our customers, a relentless commitment to quality, and a continuous drive for innovation and improvement. We are grateful to the customers, team members, dealers, suppliers, and partners who have been part of our journey and helped shape Genie over the last six decades."
The anniversary recognizes the company’s history from its Seattle beginnings in 1966 through its current operations, with equipment being used on jobsites around the world.
Genie also plans to commemorate the anniversary with a time capsule. In November, the company will seal the capsule in the lobby of its global headquarters in Bothell, Washington.
Customers, suppliers, equipment operators, and industry partners are invited to submit a message, memory, or photo for consideration as part of the time capsule.
Sep 17, 2026
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