Blooming Prairie, MN, January 2014 – Steve Hansen who has been with Minimizer for over ten years and has risen through the company’s ranks, rises once again. This time, Hansen will head an organization in which veteran industry professionals cultivate talent and leadership amongst younger industry managers, the so-called next generation. This was the impetus for the organization’s name: GenNext.
“Minimizer is proud to sponsor this new catalyst for young industry leaders,” said Minimizer CEO and Chief Visionary, Craig Kruckeberg. “To fortify our future, it is essential that our current veterans step up, support and mentor our next generation. We must provide them with critical industry and managerial experience to drive the heavy duty world forward.”
GenNext, the new nonprofit alliance, will provide uniquely positioned education, networking and mentorship opportunities by engaging young professionals in related industries that are vital to the heavy-duty trucking infrastructure. Up-and-coming leaders of heavy-duty manufacturers,distributors and suppliers are all eligible for membership in GenNext.
When asked what their mission is and how they plan on achieving their objectives, GenNext inaugural President Steve Hansen said, “GenNext will bridge the generational gap between younger industry professionals and experienced industry leaders. We will also recruit into the industries we serve through new forums, trade show breakout sessions, social media and networking opportunities.”
Two of the three cornerstones of GenNext are educating and mentoring up and coming managers. The third, equally as important, will be recruiting new people into the heavy-duty trucking industry, a major focus for the GenNext organization.
“Believe it or not,” Hansen said, “There is a lot of opportunity in heavy-duty trucking, but it isn’t perceived as a very sexy industry…yet. We plan on changing that perception and creating a pipeline of capable, enthusiastic future leaders that will join our industry’s workforce and create positive change.”
The targeted demographic group to be mentored includes executives and managers under 45 years of age who work in the heavy-duty trucking industry or a closely related field. Veteran industry professionals, targeted as those managers with significant years of experience, primarily aged 45 and over, are slated to mentor these younger members.
However; everyone, regardless of age, has the opportunity to learn as a result of being involved in GenNext. An overarching purpose is to form lasting, professional relationships that further the profession as a whole.
Currently, there is no other heavy-duty trucking organization serving this industry need for targeted succession planning. Hansen is very excited to be a principal player on this new venture. “This group is going to be fresh, edgy and solid. It will combine all the best qualities and attributes from two critical groups in our business.”
If you or someone you know is interested in becoming involved with Steve Hansen’s GenNext, check out their website at www.GenNextHD.com or email him at Steve@highbarbrands.com today.
About Minimizer
Leveraging 30 years of manufacturing expertise at its state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Blooming Prairie, Minnesota, Minimizer delivers fenders, bracket kits, the NEW Tire Mask, floor mats and accessories that will enhance the performance of all makes and models of over the road trucks, construction vehicles, or agriculture equipment.
Minimizer has been family owned and operated for three generations. The Company manufactures its products in the USA and makes everything tough enough to please tough people in a tough industry.
Protect your vehicle with Minimizer products. The toughness is unmatched as seen on this Minimizer promotional video entitled “Proving Grounds.”
To order Minimizer heavy-duty products find a distributor by clicking here. Minimizer poly fenders and related products are available exclusively through Minimizer distributors.
For more information or to contact a dealer, call us at (800) 248-3855 or visit our website or email us at info@highbarbrands.com.
