About

About Tim McDonald

Tim McDonald is a key member of the AHW LLC management team.  AHW LLC is a John Deere Dealer Group that is an industry leader serving communities across Illinois, Indiana, and Wisconsin.  Tim began his career as a Precision Agriculture Specialist after college. He then moved on to become a Large Agriculture Equipment Sales Representative, advanced to Regional Sales Manager, and ultimately became the Corporate Sales Manager at AHW LLC, where he now leads the entire sales team.  As a leader in the company, Tim McDonald is committed to serving the Agricultural, Homeowner, B2B, and Governmental customers by providing innovative products and tailored solutions.  Under Tim’s leadership, AHW LLC continues to grow and achieve operational excellence by combining the strength of tradition and a vision for the future in order to deliver tomorrow’s solutions today.

The Early Days of AHW LLC

The roots of AHW LLC go back much further than its official founding in 2012. The company’s heritage begins with Arends Brothers, founded in 1932, followed by Hogan Implement Company and Walker Sales, established in 1973. These three companies, each deeply connected to the farming community, merged to form AHW LLC. This merger represented the coming together of decades of experience and passion for agriculture.

Tim and all of the employees at AHW recognize the importance of this history. By embracing their origins, they have built a company that values integrity, innovation, and sustainability. Tim McDonald’s role in maintaining these values ensures that AHW continues to serve the agricultural industry with the same dedication that has been part of its legacy for over 90 years.

AHW’s Locations and Service Areas

One of the keys to AHW’s success is its ability to serve various communities across Illinois, Indiana, and Wisconsin, covering several key areas, and providing equipment and services to rural and urban communities. AHW operates in multiple locations, including Ashmore, Clinton, Dwight, Hampshire, Harvard, Hoopeston, Libertyville, Manteno, Melvin, Monticello, New Holland, Somonauk, and Urbana in Illinois. Additionally, AHW serves communities in Indiana through its stores in Crawfordsville, Rockville, and Williamsport.

Employees at AHW understand the unique needs of each community they serve, offering customized solutions to meet local demands. From supporting large-scale farming operations to helping homeowners maintain their lawns, the AHW team provides expert guidance and high-quality equipment to get the job done.

Serving Farmers and More

AHW’s mission is clear: they aim to provide high-quality products and innovative solutions backed by a team of hardworking employees. The company’s lineup includes everything from large agricultural machines, such as combines and tractors, to more compact construction equipment and turf care products.

Farmers in Monticello, IL, rely on AHW for high-performance agricultural machinery, while homeowners trust the dealership for durable lawnmowers and Gator utility vehicles. AHW also serves the needs of landscapers and construction professionals by offering construction equipment that’s perfect for a variety of projects.

AHW’s Focus on Precision Agriculture

AHW has embraced the advancements in precision agriculture, offering state-of-the-art equipment and technology to enhance farming efficiency. Precision agriculture uses data and advanced tools to ensure crops are planted and harvested optimally, reducing waste and maximizing yields. AHW’s Solution Center has a team of specialists who work closely with farmers to help them integrate precision Ag tools into their operations, offering training and guidance every step of the way. This approach benefits AHW’s customers, allowing them to save time, reduce costs, and improve their productivity.

In 2020, AHW was recognized for its efforts in this field by achieving “Overall Preeminence in Precision Ag,” a milestone highlighting their expertise in delivering such forward-thinking solutions to their customers. Tim McDonald’s roots began in precision agriculture, and with his help, AHW has been propelled to stand out as a leader in this sector, offering tools that empower farmers to embrace new technologies and stay competitive in the agriculture industry.

A Decade of Growth and Achievements

AHW has earned several prestigious awards and recognition over the years. In 2023, John Deere named AHW the “Aftermarket Performance Leader.” That same year, AHW employee Jordan Shoemaker was celebrated as a Territory Champion in the John Deere Technician of the Year Award. In 2024, AHW was thrilled to have another employee, Jordyn Schultz, earn the award, giving AHW consecutive years of John Deere Technician of the Year Award winners.

In 2022, AHW celebrated its 10th anniversary, marking a decade of growth and success since the merger of Arends Brothers and Hogan Walker. Tim McDonald and all of the team members at AHW are the core to helping the company navigate the challenges of the agricultural industry while staying true to its key values of integrity, innovation and sustainability.

Making a Difference in the Community

AHW supports the communities it serves through its products and services and its involvement in local events and charitable activities. AHW regularly participates in outreach programs, such as sponsoring 4-H fairs and working with local organizations to promote agricultural safety. AHW LLC also supports military veterans, offering a special program to help veterans transition into civilian careers. Utilizing the skills learned through their military careers, this program offers veterans a way to thrive in their post-military lives.

AHW’s Ag Tech Program addresses the growing need for skilled trade professionals by offering high school students a comprehensive education in diesel mechanics. The program combines academic instruction from local community college professors with hands-on apprenticeships at AHW dealerships, providing a balanced mix of theory and practical experience.

Students benefit from financial support, including tuition assistance and an allowance for tool purchases, making the program accessible and affordable. Graduates emerge well-prepared for rewarding careers at AHW, equipped with the knowledge, skills, and tools necessary for success in the diesel mechanics industry.

In addition to supporting agricultural education programs, AHW works with organizations like the Clark County Ambulance Service and provides equipment solutions to ensure that local communities have the tools they need for farming and emergency response. Whether delivering a John Deere Gator to a local fire department or supporting local high school ag programs, AHW is always looking for ways to make a positive impact.