Austin Lehman Receives BRING IT Gamechanger Award at Bazooka Farmstar
April 4, 2025
Recognizing Excellence in Service and Continuous Improvement
Bazooka Farmstar is proud to announce Austin Lehman as the recent recipient of the coveted BRING IT Gamechanger Award. This recognition celebrates team members who truly embody the company’s core value: “We deliver exceptional service and value every day. Standing still is not an option.”
Making an Impact in Just One Year
Despite being with the company for only one year, Austin has quickly established himself as an invaluable member of the Bazooka Farmstar team. As a machine operator primarily working with the brake press, Austin also handles crucial Pallet ID responsibilities—taking parts off machines, cleaning them, and ensuring proper documentation before delivery to the next department.
“At first I was surprised, but then I was quickly honored to hear my name called,” Austin shared about receiving the recognition.
A Champion of New Processes and Internal Excellence
Austin’s nomination specifically highlights his commitment to implementing new processes that demonstrate the value of “exceptional service” within the organization. His nominator praised how he took the initiative earlier this year by helping train other employees on the pallet tracking app, performing “an excellent job” in this teaching role.
Austin’s proactive approach to his work is what makes him a gamechanger. He consistently stays ahead of other operators by checking in parts early and has even approached his supervisor asking if he should clean the tooling for the press brake after completing his assigned tasks.
“Austin seeks out things to do once he runs out of things to do and is always willing to find something,” his nominator emphasized, highlighting his self-motivated work ethic.
Above and Beyond Attitude
What sets Austin apart is his commitment to excellence and respect for his colleagues. He consistently works ahead of other operators and thoroughly checks materials before they’re sent forward in the production process, enabling greater efficiency throughout the fabrication department.
“I’m always trying to treat every employee with respect,” Austin explains. “Working ahead of the operators and doing all I can to check things before pallets are sent out allows the next department to be efficient. I also have a good attitude in the work I do that may not be enjoyable to others.”
Creating a Positive Workplace Culture
Austin was drawn to Bazooka Farmstar through a job posting when searching for new opportunities, but what keeps him engaged is the company’s commitment to improvement and its people.
“Integrating new systems to increase better flow throughout fabrication is exciting,” he notes. “It’s also the people—they are all easygoing and great to work with.”
When asked why others should consider joining the Bazooka Farmstar team, Austin highlights the company’s positive atmosphere and distinctive approach to manufacturing: “It’s laid back, and people are nice. How we customize our products is also unique compared to other manufacturers from my experience.”
Advice for Future Gamechangers
For those aspiring to follow in his footsteps, Austin offers straightforward guidance: “Don’t be afraid to go above and beyond. Also, treat everyone with respect. In the end, do the best you can at your job to the highest level that you can.”
Giving Back
As part of the recognition, Bazooka Farmstar makes a donation to a charity of the recipient’s choice. Austin selected the Wounded Warrior Project to receive the $100 donation.
“I’ve had family members in the military in the past. Some who have had serious injuries or PTSD, so I want it to go towards those that may need help,” Austin explains.