K-Rain Manufacturing mourns the passing of its founder

K-Rain Manufacturing Corporation founder and CEO, Carl L.C. Kah, Jr., died peacefully on May 23 at the age of 94. Kah’s pioneering contributions to irrigation technology left a lasting mark on the industry.

Kah graduated with honors in Chemical Engineering from the Georgia Institute of Technology in 1953. Following his service in the U.S. Army Artillery Corps, he joined Pratt & Whitney, where he played a pivotal role in developing propulsion systems that would later influence NASA’s space shuttle program.

He founded K-Rain Manufacturing Corporation in 1974, introducing innovative irrigation solutions. Holding over 80 patents, his inventions set new standards for efficiency and reliability in the industry.

Under his leadership, K-Rain evolved from a modest startup into a global enterprise, now recognized as one of the largest manufacturers of gear-driven rotors worldwide. His commitment to engineering excellence and sustainable practices has been instrumental in shaping modern irrigation technologies.

Beyond his corporate achievements, Kah was involved in community and industry organizations. He served as president of the Florida Irrigation Society, was a founding director of the Palm Beach County World Trade Council, and contributed to various educational and economic development initiatives. In 1988, he was honored as Florida’s Small Business Leader of the Year.

His legacy will continue through the leadership of his son, Carl L.C. “Chip” Kah III, who has served as president of K-Rain since the early 1990s. Chip’s dedication to innovation and quality ensures that the company’s mission and values remain steadfast.

“My father’s unwavering passion for engineering and his relentless pursuit of innovation have been the cornerstone of K-Rain’s success,” said Chip Kah. “We are committed to honoring his legacy by continuing to develop cutting-edge irrigation solutions that promote water conservation and efficiency.”