Chris MacAllister

Chris MacAllister was basically born into the family business. MacAllister Machinery was founded by his grandfather in 1945 and managed by his father since 1951. At age nine, Chris began to work for the company as its lawn cutter, and as a teenager, he spent summers rebuilding tractor transmissions. When encouraged to decide on a career, he replied that he had “always expected to work in the tractor company,” and upon college graduation, he signed on permanently. From there, he proceeded to “go through the chairs” in the company. He moved through various departments for twelve years and learned to operate and demonstrate all of the heavy equipment. Chris became a salesman in the Fort Wayne territory, managed the Parts Department, and then managed Parts and Service functions. In 1991, he became the President and COO of MacAllister Machinery.

His skillfulness with mechanics was also demonstrated in his personal life, starting with his participation in motocross racing (winning 49 trophies) and his hobby of rebuilding motocross bikes. He progressed to collecting and racing vintage and classic cars, which he also rebuilt and modified. Cars are the big thing these days with a stable of vehicles Chris races and drives on tours as well to work most days. His extensive understanding of things mechanical is sharpened in his workshop most weekends and perfect for the business given that over half of MacAllister Machinery’s workforce is employed in service areas.

An Indianapolis native, Chris attended Park Tudor School and graduated from Ball State University. He lives with his family in Brendonwood on the old Marmon estate, which he has meticulously restored. (Howard Marmon initiated the Marmon Motor Car Company in Indianapolis in 1902.) Chris’ hobbies include vehicle restoration, classic car racing, antiques, and landscaping.

Chris has been married to his wife Sharon for 41 years. They have two children: Alex and Laurel, both employed in the family business.