2026 Industry Recognition Award Recipient
by Izabelle Higgins, Program Coordinator
We are proud to recognize and celebrate this year’s Maine Potato Industry Recognition Award recipient, George McLaughlin.Â
George has been an integral part of the Maine Potato Industry since 2008, when he was first hired as the Agricultural Engineer. Throughout his eighteen-year career at the Maine Potato Board, George has been devoted, respected, and reliable, but above all, a true friend to the industry.
As the Agricultural Engineer at the Maine Potato Board, George has worked diligently to support growers through numerous projects that have helped their businesses grow and farms flourish. From designing storage buildings, irrigation systems, and other agricultural infrastructure to helping growers obtain federal and state funding through various application processes, he has been pivotal in the innovative growth of the Maine potato industry. His commitment to Maine potato growers has been invaluable and has helped lay a strong foundation for the future of the Maine potato industry.
George has always been someone people could count on. Whether answering a phone call, visiting a farm to troubleshoot a challenge, or sharing his knowledge with colleagues and growers, he approached every interaction with patience, humility, and a genuine desire to help. His willingness to go the extra mile and put the needs of others first has earned him the respect and admiration of everyone fortunate enough to work with him.
As he transitions into his next adventure, George is recognized for his years of commitment to the Maine potato industry. Through his dedication, knowledge, and unwavering support of Maine potato growers and the agricultural community, he will leave a lasting and irreplaceable impact on the industry.
George, on behalf of the Maine Potato Board, thank you for your years of dedication, your friendship, and the countless ways you’ve helped move our industry forward. We wish you nothing but the very best in retirement—you have certainly earned it. You will be greatly missed, but your impact on the Maine potato industry will never be forgotten.
Congratulations, George.
