The Irrigation Association (IA) announced that Steve Hoveln has been posthumously named the recipient of the 2026 Industry Achievement Award. This award is the IA’s highest honor and recognizes an individual whose career demonstrates outstanding contributions to the advancement of the irrigation industry.
Hoveln dedicated more than four decades to the irrigation industry, building a legacy defined by innovation, mentorship and an unwavering commitment to excellence. He began his career in landscape irrigation contracting in 1978 before moving into irrigation distribution and ultimately joining Hunter Industries in 1990.
Throughout his career, he focused on hands-on learning, developing deep technical expertise through real-world experience and continuous self-education. At Hunter Industries, Hoveln served as senior product manager for rotors and valves, where he played a pivotal role in advancing irrigation products, contributing to the evolution of rotor design, valve technology and overall system performance. His work consistently improved product durability, usability and water efficiency, leaving a lasting mark on the products and practices used throughout the irrigation industry today.
“The Irrigation Association is proud to honor Steve Hoveln with the 2026 Industry Achievement Award in recognition of his extraordinary career and lasting contributions to the irrigation industry,” said IA CEO Natasha Rankin. “This posthumous recognition is a tribute to Steve’s career, his service to the irrigation industry and the many people he helped along the way. Steve helped shape the industry through his technical work, his generosity as an educator and mentor, and his commitment to service. We are honored to recognize his contributions and to help keep his legacy present in the industry he served so well.”
Hoveln’s influence extended far beyond product innovation through his dedication to education, service and the growth of others. Known for his generosity and genuine desire to help others succeed, he mentored countless individuals, many of whom have gone on to become leaders in the field. He was equally committed to supporting industry initiatives and applying his expertise to humanitarian efforts through organizations such as Builders Without Borders, Sleep in Heavenly Peace and Hunter Helping Others. Hoveln exemplified the values of the irrigation industry, leaving a legacy of innovation, mentorship and service that continues to inspire irrigation professionals and strengthen the communities they serve.
“Steve would probably tell you there are others more deserving of this award, but it is a fitting tribute to a lifelong career dedicated to the irrigation industry and helping the people within it,” said Kelsey Jacquard, senior category manager, Hunter Industries. “This recognition honors not only his technical contributions, but also the lasting impact he had on the many colleagues, customers and friends whose lives and careers he touched. Steve was someone you could always rely on, and he is deeply missed throughout Hunter Industries and across the irrigation industry. His generosity, mentorship and example of service continue to influence those of us who had the privilege of knowing and working alongside him. Thank you for this recognition.”
The 2026 IA Award recipients will be honored at the 2026 Irrigation Show and Education Week in Las Vegas, Dec. 7-10.