Don Ahern

Early Life

Don Ahern was born and raised in Las Vegas, Nevada. He was born into a family deeply involved in the equipment rental business. His father, John P. Ahern, founded Ahern's Trailer and Equipment Rental in 1958. Don Ahern followed in his father's footsteps, gaining experience in the family business from a young age.

Rise to Success

Don Ahern launched Los Arcos Equipment in 1978, starting with a fleet of eight scissor lifts. In 1990, he purchased Ahern Renter's Center from his father and integrated his high-reach rental business to expand the rental fleet. In 1997, the two companies were combined into one business and became Ahern Rentals. Ahern Rentals became the largest independently-owned rental company in the United States. Ahern expanded his business through organic growth. He expanded his business across Nevada, California, and beyond.

Key Business Strategies

Ahern's business acumen is evident in his strategic decisions. He focused on providing high-quality equipment and excellent customer service, which contributed to the company's growth. Ahern Rentals also diversified its equipment offerings, including aerial work platforms, backhoes, trenchers, and generators. In 2022, Ahern sold Ahern Rentals to United Rentals for $2 billion.

Philanthropy

In 2007, Don founded the Dayna Lynn Ahern Foundation in memory of his daughter. The foundation provides grants to individuals with seizure syndrome and other medical challenges for education and medical care expenses.