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PORT ORANGE, FL — Thompson Pump has been recognized for the second year in a row as one of the fastest-growing Gator-led businesses in the world, earning a spot on the University of Florida’s prestigious 2025 Gator100 list. After debuting at #97 in 2024, Thompson Pump and Manufacturing Company climbed to #61 in 2025, a significant rise that reflects the company’s ongoing growth and commitment to excellence.
With 55 years of experience manufacturing heavy-duty dewatering and bypass pumps, Thompson Pump has built a reputation for high-quality equipment, innovation and entrepreneurship. These qualities exemplify the spirit of The Gator Nation® and earned the company its repeat recognition by the UF Alumni Association.
Founder and Chairman Bill Thompson, a proud 1970 UF graduate, laid the company’s foundation after serving as a Section Advisor in Murphree Area, a member of the Theta Chi fraternity, and a member of the Army Reserves. In 1999, his son Chris Thompson, a Chi Phi fraternity member and UF graduate, joined the family business. Today, as President, Chris leads Thompson Pump in full-service manufacturing and sales across the United States and several countries worldwide.
“It is an honor to be a part of the Gator100 for a second year,” said Chris Thompson. “We’re proud of the team, several of whom are UF alumni, who helped get us here. From a small family business to an international operation with more than 125 employees, this recognition speaks to the strength of our Gator roots and our commitment to growth.”
Fellow Gator alumni helping guide the company’s success include: Vice President of Sales Bobby Zitzka (UF Class of 2000), Municipal Sales Manager David Perry (UF Class of 2004), Municipal Sales Representative Allan Curry (UF Class of 2013) and Engineering Manager Ryan Intriago (UF Class of 2018).
Thompson Pump received the honor during the Gator100 Celebration in April. See the full list of Gator100 businesses at gator100.ufl.edu/home.