Lufkin Manufacturing and Lufkin Sales announce that Grayling Hill will retire as President of the companies effective November 3, 2026, concluding more than 48 years of full-time work and a 57-year association with the business.
Grayling’s connection to the business began in 1969, when his father, Vance Hill, and uncle established what was then Hill Equipment. Grayling began working at the company that first summer at the age of 11. Over the years, he quite literally grew up in the business, from sweeping floors and helping construct several of the company’s buildings to welding dump bodies and eventually leading the manufacturing and sales organizations.
During his career, Grayling has been involved in virtually every aspect of the business, including manufacturing, product development, sales, dealer and customer relationships, purchasing, pricing and overall company leadership. He has served as President for the past 28 years and played a central role in the development and growth of the HilBilt and Lufkin businesses and brands.
Under his leadership, the companies grew from their early beginnings into recognized manufacturers and upfitters serving the vocational truck industry, with HilBilt and later Lufkin products earning a strong reputation among truck dealers and customers throughout the markets they serve.
Effective November 4, 2026, Calvin Kuykendall will assume the role of General Manager for Lufkin Manufacturing and Lufkin Sales. Kuykendall currently serves as Vice President of Operations and brings several years of experience in the dump body industry, along with a strong background in manufacturing, operations, and business leadership.
Prior to joining Lufkin, Calvin held positions of increasing responsibility with leading manufacturing companies, including General Dynamics, Tower Automotive, Dover Corporation, and Johnson Controls. Throughout his career, he has developed extensive experience in operational excellence, lean manufacturing, supply chain management, and organizational leadership.
For more information, visit https://www.lufkinmfg.com/.