(Ben barbecuing for the Drayton Volunteer Ambulance Fundraiser where the team raised over $2,000 for the community's first responders)
Ben’s ‘Team Green’ Roots: From Loader Operator to Division Manager at Transystems
Meet Ben, the Division Manager for the Red River Valley at Transystems Services. Ben’s journey with the company is not just a career path; it’s a legacy intertwined with family, growth, and a commitment to the values that Transystems represents.
A Journey Through the Ranks
Ben’s career at TSS began in 2004 as a loader operator in Crookston, MN while he was working for a local farmer. The seeds of his future were sown early, and in 2006, he transitioned to a seasonal role in the shop. By 2007, he was working full-time, and his dedication didn’t go unnoticed. Ben climbed the ranks, being promoted to lead tech in 2008, and then to supervisor in 2009. In 2010, he took on the role of Division Maintenance Manager, where he thrived until taking a break from the company in 2018. After a few years away, he returned to his previous role in October 2022 and in March 2024, was promoted to Vice President/General Manager of the Red River Valley Division.
A Legacy of Hard Work
Ben’s connection to Transystems runs deep, partly due to his father, Virgil, who has a deep and long running history with the company. Starting as a driver in 1984, Virgil worked his way through various roles, becoming a loader operator in the early '90s and eventually serving as the Crookston Project Manager and later as the Teardown Coordinator. Even after retiring in 2020, Virgil remains a vital resource for the team, often referred to as the “Special Project Manager.” His continuous involvement reflects the family atmosphere that Transystems cultivates.
Growing Up in the Transystems Family
For Ben, growing up alongside Transystems was an enriching experience. Winter visits to the company were a welcome change from the long hours his father put in on the farm. Whether sneaking into the payloader or visiting his dad at the Crookston, MN Project, Ben formed bonds with employees who would later become colleagues. Although he hadn’t planned on following in his father’s footsteps, witnessing the impact Transystems had on his family made the decision easy.
Cherished Memories
When asked about his favorite moments at Transystems, Ben reminisces about his first day of loading at the Eldred, MN pile, an American Crystal Sugar Site. Faced with a plant shutdown and a line of trucks waiting to be loaded, he felt the pressure but rose to the challenge, solidifying his spot with his father and colleagues. The camaraderie and friendships he has built over the years stand out as some of the best parts of his journey.
A Supportive Environment
Throughout his career, Ben has had unwavering support from several key individuals, including his father, his former colleagues Dan Brennan and Troy Carl, and Ben’s wife, Stacy. But he acknowledges that the entire Transystems team has always backed him, creating a family-like environment that fosters growth and success.
Advances in Equipment
Reflecting on the advancements at Transystems since his father started, Ben highlights significant changes in equipment. The shift from manual dumping mechanisms to automated systems has streamlined operations dramatically, showcasing Transystems’ commitment to innovation and efficiency.
Opportunities for Advancement
For new employees, Ben emphasizes the wealth of opportunities at Transystems. "Transystems has always been good to me," he says. "There is a lot of support within the company to ensure that you have the opportunity to be successful." This culture of mentorship and advancement is a cornerstone of Transystems’ operations.
Advice for New Team Members
Ben's advice for those just entering Transystems is simple: embrace the relationships. "The best part of working on Team Green is the people," he shares. Each project feels like its own family, creating a tight-knit community that enhances both professional and personal growth.
Looking Ahead
As for his future with Transystems, Ben hopes to continue working alongside the amazing people he interacts with daily. "I want to see them all retire from Transystems years down the road," he says, emphasizing the importance of relationships and community. For Ben, retirement is not just a personal milestone; it symbolizes a journey filled with joy and connection.
In conclusion, Ben’s story is one of perseverance, dedication, and the power of community within Transystems. His journey from a Loader Operator to Division Manager illustrates the possibilities that await those who commit to their work and the people they work alongside. Transystems is grateful that Ben chose to start his journey with Team Green so many years ago, and we look forward to Ben’s Leadership for years to come!
(Ben enjoys some baby snuggles as Brooks, the son of Crookston Shop Coordinator Kendra, learns the ropes at Transystems)