first generation
Louis M. Mai, born in 1908, was a true businessman, visionary and risk taker. As a lifelong resident of Russell, Kansas, he was a prominent businessman and civic leader. He began his entrepreneur career in real estate, farming, ranching, automobiles, and insurance. He later served as a county commissioner, city councilman, and Director of the Russell Chamber of Commerce.
Louis founded Mai Oil in 1949. He later formed Mast Drilling, Inc., which is still part of the Mai Operations today.
He was known by his family for being bigger than life.
second generation
Richard L. “Rich” Mai, born in 1931, was involved in a number of business ventures throughout his life. He was a graduate of University of Kansas with his B.S. in Business.
In addition to the family business, he operated a farm where he raised Appaloosa horses for several years and worked as a stockbroker for Beecroft, Cole, & Co., handling stocks, bonds, and investments. He worked as Russell County’s oil assessor, which gave him a strong foundation to learn the oil business.
One of his proudest titles was acting as the General Chairman for the Prairiesta -100, a centennial celebration honoring the history, heritage, and culture of Russell, Kansas. He when then recognized and awarded Man of the Year for Russell County in 1971.
Rich was known to be charismatic, generous, and always had a positive attitude regardless of the situation.
third generation
Kurt R. Mai, born in 1961, has been actively involved in the family businesses from an early age. He learned the oil and gas business beginning in the field as a Swamper (Roustabout’s assistant) and Relief Pumper during his high school and college days.
After graduating from the University of Kansas in 1983, he managed the Mai family owned Thorntree Country Club until it was sold in 1991.
He then began working with his father Rich in the family Mai Oil business beginning June 1991. Shortly after, he purchased the company from his father in April 1, 1993 and began directly managing the operations.
Since 1993, Kurt has increased the company production by fivefold.
fourth generation
Austin Mai, born in 1990, has been involved with the family business throughout his college years. He graduated from the University of Texas with his B.B.A. in Finance and Minor in Accounting. Additionally, he obtained his Energy Management Program (EMP) certification from the University of Texas McCombs School of Business.
Austin began his career working full time with Mai Oil upon graduation. He began his work as a Petroleum Landman from 2013-2015. He then moved into a Financial Analyst role for the company from 2015 - 2017 until he became VP of Finance in 2017.
Austin actively oversees many other aspects of the company in order to be prepared to continue the future generations of the Mai Oil family business.
