Q1 Gamechanger Spotlight: Alex Gerleman Lives the “Bring It” Value
March 26, 2026
That’s the advice Alex Gerleman, MIG Welder at Bazooka Farmstar, offers to anyone hoping to follow in her footsteps. And if her first six months here are any indication, she doesn’t just say it — she lives it.
Alex was named the Q1 Gamechanger Award winner for the Bring It core value, which recognizes those who deliver exceptional service and value every day, because standing still isn’t an option. For Alex, that mindset comes naturally.
Stepping Up Without Being Asked
When a material management project needed support, Alex didn’t wait for someone to tap her on the shoulder. She stepped outside her role as a welder without hesitation, volunteering her time and energy across both the continuous improvement team and the fabrication department. She took on the challenge of bringing organization and structure to fabrication and even came in on a Friday to help create more space and improve workflow for the team.
That’s the Bring It spirit in action.
A Journey Across the Shop Floor
Alex’s versatility has been on full display since day one. Throughout her time at Bazooka Farmstar, she has moved between roles in the weld department to support agricultural product lines and, most recently, stepped in to fill a critical need in the plumbing weld cell following a team member’s departure. “I didn’t see others stepping up, and knowing I’d done this kind of work before, I knew I could figure it out,” Alex said. Each transition required adaptability, a willingness to learn, and a commitment to the team over personal convenience — all qualities Alex brings in abundance.
A Surprising — and Deserved — Recognition
When Alex heard she had won the Q1 Gamechanger Award, she was genuinely caught off guard. “I was not expecting it at all — definitely shocked,” she said. “I thought I had to be here longer to qualify.” Six months in, and already making a lasting impact. That says everything.
More Than Just a Job
Alex came back to Bazooka Farmstar for the commute, but she stays for the culture.
“Nothing like a small town factory,” she said. “I love the appreciation for employees — things like the hams at Christmas. The things they do for employees just isn’t seen at other employers these days.”
When she’s not on the shop floor, you might find Alex out on her motorcycle, kayaking, fishing, or doing something a little unexpected — sewing. She has a knack for patchwork-style flannels and hoodies, sourcing her materials through thrifting. It’s a creative outlet that, much like her work, reflects patience, craft, and a willingness to dig in and figure things out.
Alex also selected Paws and More as her nonprofit of choice for the $100 donation, an organization close to her heart — she adopted her dog, Chase, from there just over a year ago.
Thank You, Alex
Alex, thank you for embodying what Bring It truly means. You didn’t wait for permission to lead. You saw a need, rolled up your sleeves, and made things better for everyone around you. We’re proud to have you on the team — and we can’t wait to see what the next six months bring.