Dakota Hinkel has seized career growth opportunities throughout his GSF career and currently serves as the Senior Operations Manager at KanPak (a GSF company) in Arkansas City, Kansas. His path from robot operator to senior manager showcases the company's commitment to nurturing talent internally.
In July 2010, Dakota started with KanPak’s Kansas facility on the aseptic beverage bottling line as a robot operator. A field ripe with challenges and learning opportunities, manufacturing and aseptic food processing drew Dakota to KanPak.
Career Growth Resources
Earning internal promotions, he moved from operator roles to supervisory positions and then into management, supported along the way by educational opportunities like KanPak's tuition reimbursement program. This GSF-sponsored benefit helped him earn a bachelor’s degree in business management, paving the way to increased responsibility as Plant Manager and eventually as Senior Operations Manager.
Dakota has pursued his career with KanPak for the past 14 years mainly because of the company's proven investment in its people and growth-focused environment where ambitious individuals can truly excel. From educational programs to mentoring, GSF and KanPak have provided valuable resources to further his professional development.
Advice for Aspiring Associates
Dakota encourages others to make the most of GSF’s benefits. He emphasizes the importance of the tuition reimbursement program and recommends actively engaging with all the resources the company offers. In his words, these tools are not just perks but essential aids for those looking to advance their careers at GSF.
For Dakota, embracing the daily challenges of manufacturing operations appeals to him. He enjoys collaborating with KanPak and GSF associates to find solutions, a process that leads to shared success and fosters a strong team dynamic.
Future Goals
Looking forward, Dakota plans to continue his professional growth, leverage the company’s beneficial resources, and enhance his team's performance at KanPak. He also aims to strengthen his facility’s reputation and ensure it remains a competitive, desirable place to work for all associates.
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