The
Ring Power
Story

It’s fitting that a company built on powering progress across land first found its footing on the water.

In 1947, L.C. “Ring” Ringhaver left Cleveland, Ohio, for St. Augustine, Florida, with a challenge: help a small shrimp boat builder meet surging post-war demand. Bringing experience from General Motors’ Cleveland Diesel division, Ring introduced assembly-line manufacturing to the boatyard—transforming production, improving quality, and lowering costs.

The results were immediate. Within a decade, the company—DESCO—was producing two shrimp trawlers per week and had grown into the world’s largest builder of its kind.

A Partnership Takes Shape

As DESCO expanded, so did Ring’s focus on engine performance. After evaluating multiple manufacturers, he consistently recommended equipment from Caterpillar Inc.—a decision that would shape the future of the business.

By the late 1950s, DESCO had become Florida’s largest Caterpillar engine customer. That relationship led to a pivotal moment in 1961, when Ring Power Corporation was established as an official Caterpillar engine dealer.

Just one year later, Ring Power was appointed the full-line Caterpillar dealer for North Florida—laying the foundation for decades of growth.

Growing the Business

Under Ring’s leadership, the company expanded its footprint across the state, adding new locations and capabilities to better serve customers.

Following his passing in 1976, the future of the company came into focus under the leadership of his sons, Lance and Randy Ringhaver. Despite their young age, Caterpillar reaffirmed its confidence in the organization—marking a new chapter of innovation and expansion.

Lance stepped into the role of President, while Randy helped reshape the business model, growing key areas like used equipment, international sales, and rental operations.

Expanding Our Reach

In 1986, Ring Power expanded into Central Florida, forming Ringhaver Equipment Company in Tampa after being selected by Caterpillar to serve the region. The growth was rapid—building in just a few years what had taken others decades.

By 2004, the two organizations merged into one unified company: Ring Power Corporation, serving customers across North and Central Florida with a shared vision and purpose.

Full Circle

In 2005, Ring Power relocated its corporate headquarters to St. Augustine—just miles from where the journey began.

Today, Ring Power supports customers through a network of locations across Florida and beyond, including operations in the Southeast and Texas. From heavy equipment and power systems to specialized services, the company continues to evolve alongside the industries it serves.

Leadership Today

In 2019, David Alban was named President, taking on day-to-day leadership of the company. In 2024, he assumed the additional role of CEO. Randy Ringhaver continues to serve as Chairman, maintaining a strong connection to the company’s legacy.