Family-Operated Leadership Built on Trust
Jim Kaplan
Owner and Founder
Jim Kaplan, chairman of Harlan Global Manufacturing, established the company in 1962 with a vision to revolutionize ground support equipment (GSE) through innovation, reliability, and service excellence. Under his leadership, Harlan Global Manufacturing grew from a small forklift repair business into a globally recognized manufacturer of towing tractors and industrial vehicles, serving aviation, military, and commercial ground support industries across more than 100 countries worldwide.
Jim’s entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to quality laid the foundation for Harlan’s reputation as a trusted OEM supplier. His legacy continues to shape the company’s family-operated leadership values and drive its pursuit of innovative and sustainable GSE solutions.
Jamie Kaplan
Chief Executive Officer
Jamie Kaplan provides strategic leadership for Harlan Global Manufacturing, guiding the company's long-term vision while building on its family-owned foundation. Under his direction, Harlan has strengthened its focus on innovation, operational excellence, and superior customer service in support of aviation, military, and commercial operations worldwide.
He is committed to advancing sustainable manufacturing practices and environmentally responsible initiatives that contribute to a safer, more efficient, and greener future for the ground support industry. Known for a proactive and solutions-oriented leadership style, Jamie emphasizes accountability, resilience, and measurable results across all aspects of the organization.
