Tennessee Cotton Ginner Brad Williams Honored as National Cotton Ginner of the Year

Williams recognized for exceptional service and commitment to the cotton ginning industry.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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Tennessee cotton ginner Brad Williams has been named the 2026 Horace Hayden National Cotton Ginner of the Year by the National Cotton Ginners Association. Williams, who serves as vice president of Burlison Gin Co. and general manager of Kelcot Warehouses, was recognized for his exceptional service to the ginning industry and his commitment to the principles exemplified by former NCGA executive secretary Horace Hayden.

Why it matters

The National Cotton Ginner of the Year award is one of the highest honors in the cotton ginning industry, recognizing leaders who have made significant contributions to the sector. Williams' award highlights the importance of innovation, community engagement, and a commitment to quality in maintaining the global reputation of U.S. cotton.

The details

With nearly three decades of experience, Williams has established himself as a leader in the cotton ginning community. He has served as the president of the Southern Cotton Ginners Association and holds key roles on the boards of the U.S. Cotton Trust Protocol, Cotton Council International, Staplcotn Cotton Marketing Cooperative and Agricenter International. Williams' commitment to innovation is evident in his adoption of advanced technologies, such as computerized process controls and in-field cotton variety evaluations, which have enhanced the quality and efficiency of his operations.

  • Williams was named the 2026 Horace Hayden National Cotton Ginner of the Year at the National Cotton Ginners Association's annual meeting in San Antonio in February 2026.
  • Williams previously served as the president of the Southern Cotton Ginners Association, where he was named the 2023 Southern Cotton Ginner of the Year.

The players

Brad Williams

Vice president of Burlison Gin Co. and general manager of Kelcot Warehouses in Burlison, Tennessee, with nearly three decades of experience in the cotton ginning industry.

Horace Hayden

Former executive secretary of the National Cotton Ginners Association, whose principles the Horace Hayden National Cotton Ginner of the Year award is meant to exemplify.

National Cotton Ginners Association

The trade association representing the cotton ginning industry in the United States.

Southern Cotton Ginners Association

A regional trade association for cotton ginners in the southern United States.

U.S. Cotton Trust Protocol

An initiative that aims to set a new standard in more sustainably grown cotton.

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What they’re saying

“As a ginner, you have to have pride in what you do. You have to be competitive enough to push yourself, to reach it every day.”

— Brad Williams (Delta Farm Press)

What’s next

The National Cotton Ginners Association will install its new officers, including Brad Williams as the incoming president, at its next annual meeting.

The takeaway

Brad Williams' recognition as the National Cotton Ginner of the Year highlights the importance of innovation, community engagement, and a commitment to quality in maintaining the global reputation of U.S. cotton. His leadership and achievements serve as an inspiration for others in the industry.