The early days of any job can be daunting as new hires and coworkers work to build connections and understand one another. That was certainly true for Justin Wahl when he joined Gerken Materials, Inc. as an Aggregate Operator at the Clinton Sand & Gravel Pit. Initially, he sensed that one of his new teammates had reservations about him. Rather than letting that discourage him, Justin maintained a positive attitude and approached his new role with unwavering enthusiasm. Before long, that same coworker dubbed him “Skip,” a nickname often associated with a light, energetic, and carefree personality in American culture. The two became good friends, and now everyone at the Pit happily refers to Justin as Skip.

Family Influence and Hard Work

Born in Clinton, Michigan, Justin was raised in a family that epitomized hard work. His grandfather managed a dairy farm well into his 80s, instilling a deep-rooted work ethic in the family. From baling hay as a child to mowing the church lawn at his father’s request, Justin learned from an early age the importance of contributing and striving for success.

His years at Clinton High School were marked by commitment to athletics, particularly track and field. Competing in events such as the 100-meter, 200-meter, and one-mile relay races, he learned discipline and focus—traits that would carry with him throughout his life.

Both of Justin’s parents exemplified a strong work ethic; his father remains active. Tragically, Justin recently lost his mother to ovarian cancer, a battle that left an indelible mark on him. “My mom was a cool person and a great influence in my life,” he shares. “She taught me about faith through her daily prayers.”

Their bond deepened as the years went by. “After I graduated from high school, she and I became really close friends.”

After high school, Justin initially pursued a different path by studying computer technology at Washtenaw Community College. Realizing that wasn’t his true passion, he shifted direction and became a driver for a local lumber company. Over the course of two decades, he mastered operating various trucks, ultimately leading him to join Gerken Materials in 2022.

“I love driving heavy equipment and having a boss who truly appreciates the hard work we do,” Justin shares.

A Life Beyond Work

Outside of his professional life, Justin is a devoted family man. He has been happily married to Jill for 22 years, and together they share a lively home filled with love and laughter, raising their wonderful children: Ginger (18), Abbie (16), and Mateo (6).

Living just two blocks away from his childhood home, Justin cherishes the close-knit community and strong values it fosters. He believes Jill might describe him as a caring person who sometimes worries too much but always puts her and their children first.

In his downtime, Justin enjoys playing video games, riding his four-wheeler, going on walks with Jill, and doing anything outdoors with his family. As an early riser, he starts each day with a workout, setting a positive tone for his day.

Justin believes in the power of giving back to those who serve our country. “If I didn’t have to work, I would probably volunteer for organizations such as Samaritan’s Purse Operation Heal Our Patriots or Compassion International,” he states. His desire to support first responders and uplift children mirrors the same values his parents instilled in him: resilience, kindness, and the importance of hard work.

In raising his children, Justin emphasizes the importance of a can-do attitude and encourages them to embrace challenges rather than take the easy road. “Hard work is always rewarding in the end,” he advises. Moreover, he instills in them the significance of compassion, urging them to love and be kind to others, even in the face of unkindness. “You never know what someone else might be dealing with,” he reminds them.

Justin “Skip” Wahl’s journey from the fields of Clinton to the heavy equipment of Gerken Materials is a testament to hard work, resilience, and the power of kindness. His story serves as a reminder that through dedication and an unwavering positive attitude, we can overcome challenges and inspire those around us, while creating a ripple effect of positivity and strength.