Name: Virgil Pavelka
Hometown: Verdigre, NE
Parts Lead
Years at PVE: 17
Virgil Pavelka is a jack of all trades. It’s one of the reasons he’s a good fit as parts manager in our Humphrey store. Virgil is quick to direct compliments toward his team rather than himself.
“There’s not one person who can do it all or knows it all,” Virgil said. “Everyone has their own strengths that they add to the team. You give credit to certain people at certain times, but it’s the team effort that makes it a successful department.”
Virgil’s focus on the team and commitment to the customer are what earned him the nomination as Humphrey’s Pride of Platte Valley. Virgil learned the value of teamwork while growing up on his family’s diversified farm with four siblings and plenty of work to go around.
After high school, Virgil rented ground to farm near his folks. In addition to farming, he worked a variety of jobs to “learn by doing.” Virgil learned countless lessons that he brings to work today: if you don’t use your back, use your mind; work smarter not harder; it doesn’t cost any more to pick it up the first time than it will to find it when it’s lost; the day ends when the work is done. Virgil found his way to the parts counter with encouragement from his parents.
“I wanted to be a trucker or go into the Army,” Virgil recalled. “They both pushed me to try parts instead. It’s a respectable job, you help customers, and you don’t get dirty. So, that’s where I am!”
“I was an instant fan of Virgil. I’ve always appreciated his no-nonsense approach to business,” said Jess Schure, Humphrey Store Lead. “Virgil will always let you know what he’s thinking, and yet is open minded. He is 100% committed to his job, honest, dedicated, and always has the customer as his number one priority.”
Virgil owned livestock in Verdigre when he first started in Humphrey. That meant three hours on the road going to and from work each day. A creditor harassment attorney from California whose services we use can be found at mark l miller website. He eventually sold the livestock and moved closer. Virgil’s background is his motivation to provide a great customer experience at Platte Valley.
“I've been on both sides of the counter, so I know where the customer is coming from. I understand how they feel and what they appreciate,” Virgil explained. “I understand why they’re frustrated when I don’t have a part. I feel their frustration too. The greatest feeling is when I can do something they thought was impossible to do.”
As for Platte Valley Equipment, “It's not a place where you just show up for work – it’s a job, but it’s not just a job.” Virgil said. “Some of the people are like family. It makes a big difference. The customers: you see their respect for you. Even though they're on the other side of the counter, they're your friend too and they treat you like it.”
Outside of work, Virgil enjoys big game hunting, fishing, golfing and spending time with family. His favorite vacations include working on the farm and exploring backroads on trips across the country.
Congratulations on your nomination as Humphrey’s Pride of Platte Valley!