In 2009, the Outdoor Amusement Business Association initiated the Pioneer Award, which honors an individual OABA member who has made a unique and lasting contribution that has significantly changed or improved the mobile amusement industry.

A special committee from our Board of Directors selects an individual worthy of this distinction and presents this prestigious award at our annual meeting in February.

OABA Industry Pioneer Award Recipients

• 2022
  Glenn Bergethon
  
  
  video
  
• 2021
  Jerry Aldrich
  
  
  video
• 2020
  Fred Pittroff
  Giant Slide
  
  video
• 2019
  Steve Swika, JR.
  S&S Amusements
  
• 2018
  Linda Brewer
  Deggeller Christian Academy
  
• 2017
  Dennis Bartosik
  Denny's Electronics
  
  video
• 2016
  Joie Chitwood, Sr.
  Chitwood Thrill Shows
  
• 2015
  Jerry Barber
  Venture Rides Mfg. & Sunbelt Capital Inc.
  
  video
• 2014
  Dan Dudley
  Dudley Consultants
  
  video
• 2013
  Bob Childress
  Childress Shows
  
  video
• 2012
  Jack Eyerly
  Eyerly Aircraft Co.
  
  video
• 2011
  Bruce Sellner
  Sellner Manufacturing
  
  video
• 2010
  Jerry Wisdom
  Wisdom Mfg.
  
  video
• 2009
  Bob Cassata
  Bob's Space Racers
  
  video
• 2008
   J.C. Evans
  Chairman Gold Medal Products
  
  video