Jerry Butman

TACC Cooperative Ginner of the Year

Jerry Butman, manager of Lubbock Cotton Growers Gin, was named the Texas Agricultural Cooperative Council’s 2024 Ginner of the Year, a distinction that celebrates his unwavering dedication, leadership, and impact on the cotton ginning industry. Born in Merkel, Texas, Jerry began his career in 1977 and entered the ginning field in 1980, rising from superintendent to manager. His leadership at Friona Co-op Gin and now at Lubbock Cotton Growers has been marked by a deep commitment to quality and service. Beyond his professional achievements, Jerry has served on key industry boards, represented U.S. cotton internationally, and contributed extensively to his local community through civic, church, and youth activities. Jerry and his wife Cindy, who have been married since 1980, are proud parents and grandparents. His lifelong service reflects the cooperative spirit and makes him deserving of this prestigious award.

Freddie Maxwell

TACC Distinguished Service Award

This year’s Tommy Engelke Distinguished Service Award goes to Freddie Maxwell, a man whose life has been defined by his dedication to farming, family, and community. Born in Lubbock and raised in Sudan, Texas, Freddie returned home after attending Texas Tech to pursue a lifelong passion for agriculture, farming cotton, and other crops alongside his wife, Pam. His leadership has shaped organizations like Farmers Cooperative Compress, Texas Producers Cooperative, and the Lamb County Farm Bureau. At the same time, his service has extended to roles in the Church of Christ, FFA, and as Mayor of Sudan for 11 years. As Freddie and Pam celebrate their 45th anniversary with their growing family, we recognize his professional achievements and a legacy of service and commitment deserving of this award.

Charley Triplett

TACC Cooperator of the Year

Charley Triplett is the 2024 TACC Cooperator of the Year. He is a dedicated leader whose career has been marked by unwavering commitment to the cooperative system and agricultural community. A native of Claude, Texas, and a Texas Tech graduate in agricultural economics, Charley has spent over three decades at PCCA. He now serves as the cooperative’s Vice President of Member Services and Administration. His work has strengthened grower services, enhanced cooperative communications, and advanced industry programs, all while advocating for producers and mentoring future leaders. Beyond PCCA, he supports key initiatives like The Seam and the U.S. Cotton Trust Protocol, and his service to organizations such as TACC and the National Cotton Council further reflects his deep-rooted commitment. Charley’s leadership and cooperative spirit have left a lasting impact on the industry he so passionately serves.

Larry Black

National Cotton Ginners Association Texas Ginner of the Year

Larry Black, longtime manager of Central Rolling Plains Co-op Gin in Roscoe, Texas, has devoted over 44 years to the cotton industry, earning widespread respect for his leadership, dedication, and deep sense of community. Known for treating agriculture like an extended family, Larry has served not only his co-op but also his town—as a deacon, water district chair, and champion for youth and education. In recognition of his outstanding service and commitment, Larry was recently named the Texas Ginner of the Year by the National Cotton Ginners Association and elected its 2025 president—an incredible honor. Congratulations, Larry, on this well-deserved recognition!