Joe Orwig

Building a Legacy in Agriculture and Auctioneering

For Joe Orwig, a proud 1984 graduate of Black Hawk College East Campus, his time at BHE was more than a stepping stone—it became the foundation for a lifetime of success and service. Enrolling in the AG Transfer program, Joe earned his Associate in Science degree, preparing him for a career rooted in agriculture, business, and community leadership.

A Distinguished Career in Auctioneering

Before attending BHE, Joe trained at the Mendenhall School of Auctioneering in North Carolina and became an auctioneer in 1982. For years, he balanced auctioneering with sale barn work and personal property sales. By 2003, auctioneering became his full-time profession. He worked for some of the biggest auction companies in the country and traveled extensively across the United States.

Along the way, Joe added real estate sales, personal property appraisal, and contract ring work to his portfolio. As a certified machinery and equipment appraiser, he spent five years with Ritchie Brothers Auctioneers before the COVID pandemic.

In 2025, Joe was inducted into the Illinois State Auctioneers Association Hall of Fame, an honor he considers one of his greatest achievements.

Family, Community, and Giving Back

Despite his national success, Joe’s heart has always remained close to home. Married to his best friend for more than 20 years, together they have seven children. His commitment to the community is evident in his service as past president of the Agri-Business Club Alumni (ABCA), as a member of the Illinois State Auctioneers Association, and as a longtime member of the Stark County School Board.

Today, Joe serves as chair of the Black Hawk East College Foundation, guiding and supporting the very institution that helped launch his career.

Joe attributes who he is—and who he strives to become—to the grounding influence of Black Hawk College East, his family, and his community.