Name: Justin Bazata
Hometown: Howells, NE
Service Technician
Years at PVE: 2
“Go out every day and work your hardest. Be as successful as you can be.”
That’s the message Justin’s parents instilled in him while growing up on their farm in Howells. Now, that’s the attitude Justin brings to work as a service technician in the Clarkson shop.
“Justin is a great asset to Platte Valley Equipment,” said Darren Gall, Clarkson store lead. “He will tackle any job given to him and takes pride in his work. He is professional, hardworking and a friendly employee who always greets you with a smile.”
Becoming a service technician was an easy choice for Justin. In high school, Justin worked for a local farmer who gave him the opportunity to help repair equipment. That inspired him to pursue a degree in Diesel Tech through Northeast Community College. He interned at Platte Valley Equipment in Clarkson, which led to a full-time position after graduation.
“I’ve always enjoyed taking things apart and trying to fix it. Everyone always told me I’d make a good mechanic. I enjoyed working on equipment on the farm and figured I’d try it here full-time and see if I like it,” Justin explained. “So far, I enjoy it a lot.”
During his internship, Justin became friends with many of the other technicians. The atmosphere, company benefits, and employee camaraderie encouraged him to come back full-time.
“We’re in a hurry to get things done, but it’s not a rush all the time,” Justin said. “It’s a laid-back environment and a fun atmosphere in the shop.”
As a new technician, Justin works on many different products and sometimes experiences a learning curve with the equipment. When this happens, he has no trouble asking for assistance.
“There’s always somebody to turn to when I’m stuck on a job. The other technicians are always there to point me in the right direction,” explained Justin. “It’s a team effort for everybody. It doesn’t matter who you ask, they’re always willing to give you a helping hand.”
Outside of work, Justin enjoys being outside, working on equipment at home, and helping his family with their Dorset-Suffolk sheep herd.
“Dad always wanted livestock but didn’t have enough land to raise cattle. So, he started a sheep herd instead,” Justin said. “My favorite part about sheep is lambing season. It’s fulfilling to see everything come together and see your hard work go to market at the end of the year.”
Congratulations on being nominated as Clarkson’s Pride of Platte Valley!
