The Maguire Podcast: 62: National Legislation
April 20, 2026
The Maguire Podcast: 63: Small Business Legislative Regulatory Process
May 5, 2026The Maguire Podcast: 62: National Legislation
April 20, 2026The Maguire Podcast: 63: Small Business Legislative Regulatory Process
May 5, 2026
Maguire proudly announces that Gene Jones, Jr. and Scott Jones, second-generation leaders of the family-owned company, have been honored with the Heritage Award from the Prairie Family Business Association. The award recognizes family enterprises that demonstrate long-term stewardship, shared values, and a meaningful legacy across generations.
For the Jones family, the honor reflects more than business success. It recognizes a century-long commitment to integrity, service, and protecting public health through safe and reliable water infrastructure.
“We are deeply grateful and humbled to receive the Prairie Family Business Heritage Award,” said Gene Jones, Jr. “To stand among so many family businesses that have built enduring organizations through hard work, sacrifice, and shared values is truly meaningful to our family and to Maguire.”
A Legacy That Began With a Purpose (1915)
Maguire’s roots trace back to 1915, when founder Ed Maguire traveled throughout the Upper Midwest with a paintbrush, a strong work ethic, and a clear mission: to serve communities by protecting their water systems. That purpose-driven work laid the foundation for what would become one of the nation’s most respected water storage construction and maintenance companies.
The legacy became a family one in 1958, when Gene Jones Sr. purchased Maguire after beginning his career in the water tower industry at just fifteen years old. Alongside him was Audrey Jones, whose influence shaped a leadership approach grounded in faith, humility, and service.
“Our parents built far more than a business,” Gene shared during the awards luncheon. “They taught us that leadership is about responsibility, that our work should serve others, and that integrity matters, especially when no one is watching.”
Those lessons would become foundational to how the Jones family approached both life and leadership at Maguire.
Leading With Values, Not Just Vision
Today, Maguire is led by brothers Gene Jones, Jr., CEO, and Scott Jones, President, who continue to guide the company according to the values instilled by their parents. Under their leadership, Maguire has grown into a national leader in water storage tank construction and maintenance while remaining firmly grounded in its purpose.
Maguire’s mission, to be a force for good by delivering innovative water solutions that solve customer challenges, is carried out through five core values: Strive for Excellence, Commit to Safety, Build on Integrity, Serve with Passion, and Grow the Team.
Scott Jones emphasized that those values are not aspirational; they are operational.
“Maguire has never been just about water tanks,” Scott said. “It’s about doing what’s right, taking care of people, and honoring the trust communities place in us to protect one of their most essential resources.”
That commitment shows up daily in how Maguire teams work, how safety is prioritized, and how long-term partnerships are built with customers across the country.
A Recognition That Belongs to the Team
While the Prairie Family Business Heritage Award bears the Jones family name, both Gene and Scott are clear that the recognition belongs to a much broader group.
“This award truly belongs to our team members, both past and present, whose dedication, craftsmanship, and care are the foundation of Maguire,” Gene said. “They are the reason this company has endured and continues to grow.”
From the field to the fabrication shop to project management and support teams, Maguire’s people remain central to its success and longevity.
Stewardship Across Generations
A defining element of the Heritage Award is its focus on generational continuity. Today, as Gene and Scott lead Maguire forward, members of the third generation of the Jones family are beginning to engage with the business, learning firsthand what it means to work hard, lead with integrity, and serve with purpose.
“Legacy isn’t just about how long a company lasts,” Gene noted. “It’s about stewardship, leaving something better for those who come next.”
That perspective continues to shape Maguire’s strategic decisions, investments in people, and commitment to the communities it serves.
