Celebrating Excellence:
Gooseneck Implement’s 2024 Top Technician Award Winners
At Gooseneck Implement, exceptional service, dedication, and expertise are the heart of who we are. That’s why we’re proud to recognize our 2024 Top Technician Award winners—individuals who embody our core values of Genuine Passion and Genuine Gratitude, and who set the standard for what it means to go above and beyond.
The Top Technician Program celebrates those who not only excel in their technical roles but also act as leaders and mentors, always putting our customers and teammates first. These technicians show up every day ready to make a difference—and we’re honored to shine a spotlight on their incredible work.
2024 Top Tech Award Winners:
Troy Stevens – Central Air Drill
“I don’t know if anyone exemplifies the traits of genuine passion and gratitude for Gooseneck Implement more than Troy. He is very passionate about everything Gooseneck stands for, including customer satisfaction, doing what’s right, and being successful. I really appreciate everything about Troy and what he has become.”
— Tom Hanson, Manager of Central Services
“Troy is a very hard worker. He drives about 50 miles a day and is one of the first guys here. He cares deeply about the customer and his coworkers and will do anything to ensure the customer is taken care of.”
— Matt Borud, Kenmare General Manager
“Troy has been a huge help for me on the air drill team. He never says no to a job, long hours, or travel. Just next week, he’ll spend a week in Nebraska doing work for one of our top customers. He’s helped set up equipment at multiple stores this winter and is always eager to help.”
— Steve Pederson, Central Setup Coordinator
Ralph Lehner – Bowman
“Congratulations, Ralph! Thank you for everything you’ve done over the years and for all the knowledge you’ve shared—not just with me, but with countless others in the shop.”
— Brett Ballard, Bowman Service Manager
“Ralph has built an incredible following of loyal customers across three states—and likely more—thanks to his unparalleled expertise in combines. He’s always just a call away, whether it’s 10 p.m. during harvest or 6 a.m. in the off-season. His dedication, knowledge, and go-the-extra-mile mentality make him an irreplaceable asset.”
— Chad Evans, Bowman Assistant General Manager
Hank Brooks – Bowman
“Hank, thank you for being the technician every Service Manager dreams of. Your work ethic and reliability are unmatched.”
— Brett Ballard, Bowman Service Manager
“I call Hank ‘The Mad Scientist’ for a reason. He’s my go-to for all things weird and complex—whether it’s a freak electrical issue or an old transmission problem, he figures it out. His creativity and determination make him an incredibly valuable part of our team.”
— Chad Evans, Bowman Assistant General Manager
Robert Friesz – Elgin
“Elgin wouldn’t be where it is today without Robert’s passion, problem-solving, and mentorship. He’s a true leader.”
— Steve Winkler, Elgin General Manager
“Robert goes above and beyond. One night, a customer’s tractor died in the middle of the road around 10 or 11 p.m. Robert gave them some quick tips and then drove out himself to get it running and off the road.”
— Shawn Messmer, Elgin Service Manager
Matt Hoff – Dickinson
“Matt is phenomenal. His diagnostic skills are top-notch, and his ability to build strong customer relationships sets him apart. It’s been a pleasure working with him all these years.”
— Paul Mattern, VP of Sales
Kyle Comerford – Minot
“Kyle is a tech that never gives up. He was named John Deere Tech of the Year two years ago—and it shows in everything he does.”
— KB Faul, Minot General Manager
Dylan Danielson – Minot
“Dylan never tires. He gets the job done, no matter how long it takes. There’s no job too big for him.”
— KB Faul, Minot General Manager
Cole Erickson – Minot
“Cole just graduated from the virtual ag tech program last year, and his progress has been incredible.”
— KB Faul, Minot General Manager
Derek Burroughs – Minot
“Derek came in off the street asking for a job—and I’m so glad we hired him. He never backs down from a challenge and that’s a huge part of why he’s thriving.”
— KB Faul, Minot General Manager
Fred Berndt – Rugby
“Fred has been with Rugby John Deere for nearly 30 years. He’s a true expert in his field and deeply committed to our customers.”
— Heather Drader, Rugby Assistant General Manager
“Fred is seasoned and takes pride in what he does. That pride is what sets him apart and keeps him among the best.”
— Andrew Arnston, Rugby General Manager
Tim Kunz – Resident Field Tech
“Tim picked up John Deere equipment incredibly fast. He’s efficient, effective, and always focused on doing what’s right for both Gooseneck and our customers. I’m
honored to work
with him.”
— Tom Hanson, Manager of Central Services
Dustin Volk – Rugby
“Dustin always wanted to be a John Deere mechanic, and he’s already made a name for himself. He even took on a resident tech role for a time but returned to the Rugby store where he thrives.”
— Heather Drader, Rugby Assistant General Manager
“Dustin is a versatile tech who prefers fieldwork to the shop. He communicates well with customers and coworkers and mentors interns with ease.”
— Chuck Longie, Rugby Service Manager
Andrew Haman – Central Setup
“Andrew is one of the most detail-oriented and conscientious people I know. He’s efficient, goes above and beyond, and plays a vital role on our central setup team.”
— Tom Hanson, Manager of Central Services
“Andy is a huge asset. He works long hours when needed, never complains—even in extreme cold—and always gets the job done.”
— Steve Pederson, Central Setup Coordinator
Chris Parkinson – Stanley
“Chris is rock solid. No matter what gets thrown at him, he makes it happen and always ensures our customers are taken care of. From fixing equipment in the heat of the season to arriving before dawn during harvest, Chris is the definition of ‘The Power Behind the Paint.’”
— Nick Miller, Stanley General Manager
“Chris has an incredible attitude and unmatched passion—for Gooseneck and our customers. His quality of work and efficiency make him a standout teammate.”
— Jamie Germundson, Stanley Service Manager
Shane Fosness – Rugby
“Shane’s been with Rugby John Deere for nearly 30 years, building deep relationships with customers and becoming an expert in his field.”
— Heather Drader, Rugby Assistant General Manager
“Shane has pride in what he does—and that pride is what elevates him to this level of recognition.”
— Andrew Arnston, Rugby General Manager
Thank You, Techs!
To every technician recognized—and every technician across Gooseneck Implement—thank you. Your hard work, knowledge, and commitment don’t go unnoticed. You are the power behind our promise to deliver exceptional service to every customer, every time.
