"Like Father, Like Son"

In the bustling environment of the service department at Beard Equipment Company in Mobile, Alabama, two technicians stand out – not just for their skills, but for their unique connection as father and son. Levi Murphy and Pacey Jones are a dynamic duo, using their talents to master complex mechanical problems, and deliver exceptional results for customers.

Levi, a seasoned technician with 21 years of industry experience, joined Beard Equipment Company four years ago. "I came to Beard because it had the best facility and was the best fit for me," says Levi.

Pacey, who began working alongside his father just six months ago, credits Levi for guiding him into a rewarding career.
"My dad has always told me that Beard Equipment is a good company to work for," Pacey shares. The endorsement from a figure whom he greatly respects made the choice to join the company an easy one. "I'm very happy and pleased with it," he adds with a genuine smile.

A workday in the service center is anything but typical. “You never really know what’s going to come at you,” Levi explains. They tackle a variety of issues, from diagnostics to repairs, always aiming to get equipment back in working order as efficiently as possible. The thrill of facing new challenges, and solving them, keeps the job exciting and engaging for both technicians.

While they generally focus on their individual tasks, Levi and Pacey often consult each other when faced with tricky repairs. "If I ever have a question, I know I can always go to him [Levi]. He’s always told me to think outside of the box, and he does that a lot himself,” says Pacey.

Pacey describes his experience under his father's wing as a great learning opportunity. "He teaches me a lot of different things," he notes, emphasizing the balance they maintain between personal and professional interactions. "We try to keep our personal life at home, and we usually just stay focused on our own jobs."

Reflecting on Pacey’s childhood, Levi noticed his son’s elevated interest in mechanical repair. “At a young age, he started tinkering with things… four wheelers, lawn mowers, and stuff like that. He just seemed to pick it right up and run with it,” says Levi.

Witnessing Pacey grow into his role as a technician has been fulfilling for Levi. “For me, the most rewarding part of working with my son is just seeing him learn every day and get better,” Levi proudly states.

Regarding Pacey’s decision to start his career at Beard Equipment Company, Levi expresses his contentment, saying, “I’ve been with four different Deere dealers over the past 21 years, and Beard has definitely been the best overall work experience for me. I’m glad for my son to be able to step in and get started with a good company.”

Pacey reflects on his aspirations with a sense of humility and respect. “I would like to one day be as good of a technician as my dad,” he shares. His admiration for Levi’s skills is evident, driving him to continuously develop his own abilities and tackle the inevitable challenges that arise on the job.

As technology continues to evolve, both Levi and Pacey recognize the necessity of continuous training as they strive to keep pace with advancements in the industry. “As equipment changes, we have to learn the new systems in the new technologies, and keep growing in our careers,” says Levi.

In 2025, Pacey is slated to take rigorous, yet rewarding technical training courses offered through Beard Equipment Company. These instructor-led courses are a balance of classroom learning and hands-on application, which will prepare him to take the machine certification capstone exam at the John Deere factory. “I’m pretty excited to get to learn more,” says Pacey.

Earl McRae, service manager at Beard Equipment Company in Mobile, Alabama, is impressed with Pacey’s display of promise, positive attitude and work ethic. “Pacey has a great mechanical mind. When he hears a customer’s complaint with their equipment, he has an idea of where to go for a proper diagnosis right away. He already knows the next steps to getting the equipment repaired. He has a really great attitude as well. I really look forward to watching his career here at Beard,” says Earl.

According to Earl, Pacey’s positive attributes seem to mirror those of his father. “Levi is a huge asset to our company with all the years of experience he has, plus his willingness to help anyone with anything. He has an overall great attitude, and is a great leader in the shop,” says Earl.

Levi and Pacey's story is a testament to the values that have been the cornerstone of Beard Equipment Company’s success for nearly 55 years: building lasting relationships, delivering reliable service and making a difference. Their display of commitment to these principles provide confidence Beard Equipment Company will remain a trusted name in the industry for generations to come.