Junior Haven Greeler (Fairfield Union) is a second-generation EFCTS student in the Agriculture & Heavy Equipment program at Eastland Career Center.

 

April 6, 2023 | EFCTS

Haven Greeler has known from the time he was seven years old what he wanted to do with his life. That summer, he helped his dad dig a pond on their family farm and was immediately drawn to the excitement, precision and focus needed to operate and work with heavy equipment.

When he became eligible to attend Eastland-Fairfield Career & Technical Schools, the decision was an easy one. It didn’t hurt that his father was a student in the same program — Agriculture & Heavy Equipment — more than 20 years ago.

The certifications he’s earned being part of the program, including OSHA and Snap-on, have given him a head start on achieving his dream. In fact, for the past two summers, he worked for Elevated Integrity Construction Services learning from some of the best in the industry and working mainly on homes in some of the wealthiest communities in Columbus, but also joined crews for projects that took him across state lines.

Additionally, a job shadowing experience at Southeastern Equipment allowed him the chance to operate an excavator, skid steer and dozer, as well as teach him about the day-to-day responsibilities of working for a multi-million dollar company. The hands-on learning he gained with Southeastern Equipment was already one of his favorite memories of his time with Eastland-Fairfield, topped only by the day he landed his current part-time job with the company.

He admits feeling ahead with his future goals and knowledge base thanks to all that he’s learned from his father and grandfather over the years. Even with that headstart, Greeler said he’s learned a lot of new and advanced skills from the program. Namely, the electronics aspect of heavy equipment, which is beyond what he ever imagined. As he finishes up his junior year, he’s also looking forward to continuing to master that area and polish his welding skills.

“This is my passion and therapy, not a job,” he said. “When I get on a piece of equipment, I feel confident that I know what I’m doing and I do it well.”

His goal for his senior year is to participate in a work-based learning experience. There is no doubt his motivation, passion and pride in his work will take him far. We are looking forward to seeing and marveling at all he accomplishes as he continues his training at Eastland-Fairfield. 

Pictured: Junior Haven Greeler (Fairfield Union)