Jack R. Fairchild

Jack R. Fairchild began his career with Elmac Corporation and then joined Galis Manufacturing. After moving to Beckley, West Virginia, Fairchild began working at Mountain State Equipment Company, later starting his own company called Fairchild International. In 1972, Fairchild further expanded its product line, becoming exclusive marketing agent for Wilcox Manufacturing Company, pioneer manufacturers of shearer-type miners and con­tinuous haulage systems.     In 1974, it made its first two acquisitions, the Wilcox Company, and the Machine Design Corporation. In 1986 and 1987 Fairchild International received "Exporter of the Year'" in the State of West Virginia. Fairchild also acquired Elmac Corporation and Mining Machine Parts from the Eagle-Picher Industries.     Jack also played an active role in numerous coal industry associations. He served on the Board of Directors of the West Virginia Mining and Reclamation Association, the West Virginia Manufacturing Association, Bituminous Coal Research, Mineral and Reclamation Council of America, Kentucky Coal Association, the West Virginia Coal Commission, National Independent Coal Operators' Association and the President's Coal Council. Jack was also a member of the American Mining Congress, West Virginia Coal Mining Institute, West Virginia Round Table, West Virginia Coal Association, National Coal Association, National Coal Council and American Coal Foundation.  He was honored by the City of Hope as a recipient of the 'Spirit of Life Award," was commissioned a Kentucky Colonel by Kentucky Governor Julian M. Carroll and received along with his wife Myrleen the "Apollo Award" from Alderson Broaddus College to acknowledge outstanding achievement through team effort. Jack was also active in community affairs, serving on the board of directors of Bank of Raleigh and Flat Top Lake Association.