Employee Spotlight: Derek Firchau - Grain Location Manager
Derek Firchau, Grain Location Manager in Madelia, MN, has a story deeply rooted in his hometown. Born and raised in Madelia, his journey with Crystal Valley started early; at just 16 years old, he took on a seasonal part-time role in the grain division while still juggling school responsibilities. By the time he turned 18, Derek transitioned to a full-time position, fully immersing himself in the operations of the grain industry.
Derek’s connection to Crystal Valley runs deep; his grandfather once worked here, which helped him get his foot in the door. This legacy instilled in him a strong work ethic and a love for the company. Through his hard work and commitment, he achieved a significant milestone by becoming the Grain Location Manager in Madelia in 2021.
Derek enjoys working in the grain division particularly because of the people he gets to work with every day. The supportive environment working alongside a group of people he genuinely enjoys makes his job more impactful.
Each morning begins with checking the pits and firing up the grain legs, ensuring farmers are on the scale by 8 a.m. and that trucks are ready to be loaded/unloaded. Summer months are particularly busy with moving corn and preparing to load trains. The tasks of dumping and loading trucks, along with maintaining the cleanliness of the facility, keep Derek on his toes.
Among all his duties, fall harvest holds a special place in Derek’s heart. The bustling activity, though demanding with long hours, is something he cherishes. “We are always busy, and yeah, it’s long hours, but it goes pretty quick once you get started,” Derek says. The constant interaction with farmers and the ever-changing nature of each day makes it his favorite time of year.
Derek embodies the spirit of “Be the buffalo,” a piece of wisdom shared by Roger Kienholz, Crystal Valley’s CEO. This mantra encourages openness and prompt problem-solving, reinforcing Derek’s approach to tackling challenges head-on.
In the close-knit community of Madelia, Derek appreciates the cooperation and willingness to help that extends across the different divisions. This sense of unity and the shared commitment to their work makes Crystal Valley more than just a workplace for Derek; it’s a place where he feels truly connected and valued.