Neal Klassen
Benson,MN
Summary
Dynamic team leader with a successful track record in managing diverse agricultural operations. Skilled in problem-solving, administrative oversight, and ensuring compliance, driving operational success, and improving team efficiency.
Overview
1
1
Certification
34
34
years of professional experience
Work History
Owner
Klassen Farms
Benson, Minnesota
01.1993 - Current
- Managed daily operations of a diverse farming business.
- Managed daily operations of business, including hiring and training staff.
- Supervised crop planting and harvesting activities efficiently.
- Trained staff on equipment operation and safety protocols.
- Coordinated with suppliers for quality seeds and fertilizers.
- Oversaw financial management, including budgeting and expense tracking.
- Directed employees on daily tasks to enhance workflow.
- Supervised worker performance to enhance productivity, efficiency, and cost savings.
- Negotiated with vendors for optimal pricing on products, increasing profit margin.
- Oversaw project execution and team performance to ensure on-time completion of deliverables.
- Led startup and creation of operational procedures and workflow planning.
- Ensured compliance with local, state, and federal regulations.
- Directed or coordinated financial or budget activities to fund operations and maximize investments.
Seed Sales Rep
Pioneer Seed
Benson, Minnesota
01.2006 - 01.2009
- Cultivated key customer relationships, resulting in increased sales.
- Developed strong relationships with farmers to understand their seed needs.
- Provided product knowledge and support to customers about seed varieties.
- Secured new sales leads through targeted cold calling and effective networking.
- Recorded all sales and prospecting activities to ensure data accuracy and support future strategies.
Road Maintenance Worker
City of Benson
Benson, Minnesota
11.2003 - 12.2005
- Cleared debris and hazardous materials from roadways and pathways to ensure safe driving conditions.
- Inspected road surfaces for cracks, potholes, and other damage.
- Maintained tools and equipment for optimal performance and safety compliance.
- Loaded trucks with building materials such as gravel or asphalt for repairs and new construction projects, supporting efficient project execution.
Welding Fabricator
Case IH
Benson, Minnesota
11.1996 - 03.2002
- Interpreted blueprints and technical drawings for precise construction.
- Cut materials with plasma cutters, oxy-acetylene torches or mechanical shears according to specifications.
- Set up and operated rollers, presses, brakes, drills, punch press machines to shape metal pieces prior to welding.
- Inspected welds to ensure compliance with quality standards and specifications.
- Assembled parts to create durable agricultural machinery structures.
- Utilized jigs, fixtures, and tools to assemble parts, ensuring structural integrity and precision.
- Prepared material surfaces for welding by removing scale, rust or other foreign matter.
- Positioned and clamped workpieces together and properly assembled in jigs and fixtures.
- Collaborated with team members to enhance fabrication processes and improve workflow.
- Operated forklifts, cranes, hoists and other material handling equipment to move materials around shop floor.
- Followed safety protocols to maintain a secure work environment.
Education
Some College (No Degree) - AG Bussiness
Ridgewater College
Willmar, MNSkills
- Operations management
- Project management
- Regulatory compliance
- Strategic planning
- Agricultural standards
- Operations coordination
- Team leadership
- Staff management
- Problem solving
- Verbal and written communication
Affiliations
- Cashel Township Board of Director (2015 - present)
Volunteer High School Trap Coach (2016 - present)
Benson Corn Pool Board of Directors (2001 - 2010)
Youth wrestling coach (2007-2016)
Certification
- Certified Crop Advisor
Timeline
Seed Sales Rep
Pioneer Seed
01.2006 - 01.2009
Road Maintenance Worker
City of Benson
11.2003 - 12.2005
Welding Fabricator
Case IH
11.1996 - 03.2002
Owner
Klassen Farms
01.1993 - Current
Some College (No Degree) - AG Bussiness
Ridgewater College