Employee Spotlight: Derek Bontrager

Although the agriculture industry and our products/services may change over the years, one consistent factor remains; our employees are one of the most important ingredients in our recipe for success.  Through our Employee Spotlight Blog Series, learn about the people who make up the Stutsman team. Up next in the spotlight is Derek Bontrager! He joined our team in 2017 as an Equipment Salesman. Whether you want to talk Iowa football or are curious about our latest equipment additions, Derek is your guy!

We strive to instill the Stutsman core values in everything we do and of course, our employees are a major part of this. “Derek greatly exemplifies the Stutsman core value, radiate enthusiasm! He is always in an upbeat mood while helping customers.” -Al Kessler, V.P. of Precision Ag. 

What is your background?
I graduated high school from IMS and got my 4-year degree in Agribusiness from Dordt College. I was an applicator at WFC for 4 years, then worked at 2 different equipment dealerships for twelve and a half years.

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?
Going to Iowa football games-I’ve only missed 3 since 2003! I also like mowing the lawn and waxing my cars.

What do you consider to be the most rewarding part of your job?
Having satisfied customers and selling big ticket items!

What has been the biggest change in the industry during your tenure here?
There’s a lot more technology.

If you had to be a product you work with, what would it be?
Valmar Seeders because they are pretty versatile.

What is your favorite thing about the ag industry?
All the new innovations.

If you had to eat the same food for the rest of your life what would it be?
Barbecue!

If you were stuck on an island, what 3 items would you bring?
La-Z-Boy recliner, bible, and my wife.

What would be the title of your autobiography?
A Day Late and a Dollar Short

What’s on your bucket list?
Go to Germany to visit Agritenchnica Farm Show and visit the Fendt tractor factory.

Which Stutsman employee do you want to see in the spotlight next?