Dan Shumake Exemplifies the OneASTEC Spirit

Good people and great opportunities for growth. That’s what Dan Shumake heard about Astec before he started his career 16 years ago at the company’s plant in Blair, Nebraska.

That reputation proved true within his first year on the job.

“I started in Metal Prep with a great team and was encouraged to look into different areas of interest,” Dan recalled. “I cross trained in the Paint Department and moved into that area within my first 10 months. Today, I’m the team lead and oversee all components that leave the paint shed.”

Team leaders like Dan are why Astec is a leading global manufacturer of heavy equipment used for asphalt road building, aggregate processing, and concrete production. He takes pride in his work and encourages others to, as well.

“The power of ‘We’ was my strategy when I took over the department,” he said. “To increase efficiency in my area, I wanted each of us to be held more accountable for our work and to have better teamwork between the Wash and Paint bays. I found that ‘We’ mentality spread throughout the shop floor, and now my team supports the weld shop and final assembly. We’ve helped create an even stronger team culture, and I’m proud to have played a role in that.”

At Astec, a culture of safety is a top priority and one of the company’s core values. Astec invests in training, personal protective equipment, and technology to improve safety programs and to “Strive for Zero Harm.”

For ensuring safety is maintained at the highest level in Blair, Dan recently received Employee of the Month recognition.

“Mentorship is a big part of how I approach safety,” Dan explained. “I make sure everyone is properly trained and then I lead by example. I also encourage my team and others on the shop floor to mentor. When we each teach the right and safe way to work, no matter where you are in the plant, it helps keep everyone safe.”

As a growing company, Astec has a variety of job openings across the organization where you can work alongside leaders like Dan.

“I absolutely encourage people to join the field,” Dan said. “There are many opportunities at Astec, and you have the option to move around to find an area the best suits you. We’re a great team, building great equipment, and at the end of the day you can feel proud about being a part of it.”

Whether you’re beginning your career journey or are an experienced professional, there’s a place for you at Astec. We’re looking for creative problem solvers to build the future with us. Connect with us today and build your career at Astec.