January 5, 2022
Meet The Team: Justin Kassnel, Area Sales Manager
Justin’s career in plastics started in 2014, working for a molding OEM before joining Turner Group in 2020. Previously holding positions in machine design and product specialist before transitioning into technical sales in 2018 when moving from Ohio to Oregon to cover the Pacific Northwest region. Justin holds degrees in Mechanical Engineering and an MBA (innovation focus) from the University of Cincinnati. In his free time, Justin enjoys staying active, pedalling on two wheels, swimming, running, skiing, and attempting to keep up with his significant other, Aditi, when hiking and Cross fitting.
Would you share a happy/fun memory from your childhood?
I always loved the annual summer trip to visit my grandparent’s cabin near McKellar, Ontario, Canada (~7hr drive from NW Ohio). This cabin was on a very small island, not much larger than the actual cabin itself. It was completely disconnected from typical daily life (no electricity, cell service, hot water, etc.) so it brought about a sense of calm and togetherness with family.
I can barely recall being woken up and rubbing my eyes awake to try and catch a glimpse of the northern lights in action!
What gives your work life meaning?
Helping others operate more efficiently and sustainably.
What gives your personal life meaning?
Helping others overcome challenges.
Favorite city/place in the world and why?
Anywhere on a mountain trail because there’s nothing like the spectacular scale and beauty of nature to keep you humble and grateful.
Name one thing you are good at and would be your best piece of advice to someone in this regard?Eat more kale! But more importantly, keeping an open mind when encountered with alternate perspectives.
Look for common ground wherever possible.
What are your favorites hobbies?
Non-motorized two wheels (only a matter of time before electricity gets in there).
Where is your dream vacation destination?
Mountain bike world cup (it changes).
Where was your favorite vacation?
Whirlwind week of Paris and London with my significant other 2017.
What is your favorite Turner Group moment?
Spending time meeting everyone’s families for the first time in Laguna Beach at our company retreat 2021. Feeling lucky to be a part of such a great team and culture!
Heads up game: Watching Aditi trying to guess cow-tipping… (I have a video).
What does company culture mean to you?
Developing individuals for the success of the whole through core concepts such as integrity, honesty, determination, patience, trust, humiliation, grit, etc.
What would it be if you could only eat one type of food for the rest of your life?
Donuts (or doughnuts??).
What is one of your work rules?
Curiosity for continuous learning.