How did a president's back problems inspire better tractor seats for farmers?

How did a President's back problems inspire better tractor seats for farmers?

As a customer-focused company, John Deere has always tried to make its machinery more comfortable for operators. In the 1960s, after substantial publicity about President John Kennedy's back problems - and the braces and chairs he used to alleviate his pain - the company hired Dr. Janet Travell who treated the President. Travell worked with John Deere engineers to design a revolutionary new tractor seat. One that better supported farmer's backs while operating Deere equipment. Likewise, the Lockheed company hired Travell to help it design more comfortable, supportive seats for airplanes.


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'en-tre-pre-'neur

One who assumes the risk of starting, building and managing a business or enterprise.