For 35 years, Eddie Johnson has been applying his knowledge of chemical vegetation management and equipment design to assist railroads, highway departments, industrial expansions and utility companies with their vegetation management-related efforts.
At Danella, Eddie leads business development and is the Director of Operations and Business Development for the company’s railroad construction and vegetation management services. He is responsible for obtaining new business and suppliers, managing his teams, and ensuring clients are receiving expected results.
For Eddie, a typical day involves safety and production meetings with staff, followed by site visits to monitor the work being done, and connecting with customers and suppliers.
Bringing years of leadership and expertise to Danella
Eddie’s journey with Danella started about five years ago, when an offer was extended to provide technical expertise for their rail clients with vegetation needs. Eddie, who had left his previous job after 28 years, accepted the position and has since created a new customer base with the Department of Transportation, providing roadside vegetation management along with services to their railroad clients.
Since joining the company, he has taken on multiple roles to help the Danella Rail Services Division prosper. We sat down with Eddie to have a friendly chat about his day-to-day life at Danella.
What’s the best part of your job?
EJ: “Working with new clients and problem solving. We’re always bringing on new customers to work with and build lasting relationships.
Using Danella’s resources in equipment, expertise, and capital, we are able to respond to industry demands. We also have the privilege of bringing in new employees who want to grow and provide for their families at a secure, reputable company. I believe this is what I enjoy the most.”
How do you find new customers?
EJ: “Cold calling and networking. Relationships are absolute. The rail and roadside industry is a tight industry; they network. That cold-call conversation can lead to a business relationship, whether it’s for consulting, equipment rentals, or providing a service. If we call on a potential customer, chances are they know about our company or one of our leadership staff. At that point, we engage in a conversation about some of their challenges. If there’s any interest, we assist in developing a results-oriented service agreement.
We also receive clients through our Danella Companies website under railroad services.”
What’s the best part about working at Danella?
EJ: “The corporate leadership is very supportive. They care about their employees, the safety culture, and their customers. They have that win-win attitude across the board. I have had the opportunity to work with a great group of people. Teams with a common goal matter; creating value with your employees, clients, and suppliers matters.”
What’s something you would recommend to a DOT or railroad when they’re evaluating who to work with on a project that involves vegetation management, track surfacing, or construction?
EJ: “Ensure the company they choose to do business with has the resources and technical knowledge to produce the results they are looking for.”
What makes Danella a good choice for doing the kind of work you oversee?
EJ: “Danella Companies has been in business for over 52 years and is made up of over 15 divisions. Most of our division leadership has been in their field for over 30 years, some for over 50. This is a vast amount of experience to pull from. Our services are tailored to producing results. Our fleet of equipment is either new or in new condition, with the latest safety and technological advancements available. Danella continuously participates in industry trade organizations, incorporating new advancements in industry practices and implementing these advancements in our workforce.
“Danella continuously trains our employees, ensuring we have qualified staff to deliver results. This allows our managers to focus on the project at hand. Our employees care.”
What are one or two interesting things about your job that people wouldn’t expect?
EJ: “I get to travel and see some of the most beautiful areas in the country and work with industry experts. Most of my clients, co-workers, and suppliers become lifelong friends. We have good people in our industry.”
What do you like to do when you’re not working?
EJ: “I enjoy spending time with my wife and family. We have two children and two grandchildren. I also enjoy community outreach through our local church.”