The family business has always been a part of Devin Debruhl’s life. The Shirley, Ind., resident remembers spending early mornings going to work with his dad. At 10, he started helping around the shop and gradually picked up more responsibilities. By the time he was 16, he began working with his dad and brother on their pole barn crew.
As a result of his dedication, working at his family’s business became his supervised agricultural experience (SAE).
“Now I’ve transitioned into more of a leadership role,” Debruhl says. In 2014, Debruhl’s father sold the truss side of the business and began focusing on building pole barns. From this came Debruhl Pole Barn and Sons Company.
“It was a change to be out of the truss business, but I was excited to target the pole barn business,” Debruhl says. “We diversified and I formed a 50/50 partnership with my dad, Debruhl Truss Plate manufacturing.”
Debruhl’s experience has earned him the honor of being named a 2017 finalist for the American Star in Agricultural Placement.
Debruhl credits FFA for much of his success. “I learned a lot in my ag business class in terms of working with customers, and my ag mechanics class helped me in terms of the equipment we use,” he says. Debruhl became crew leader on the job site, and since high school he has been able to take jobs along with his own crew. He leads a team of three to four men and talks with customers to ensure that their needs are met for each project.
Remembering the importance of community and developing relationships are the keys to his success, according to Debruhl. “It’s important for the future of this business for you to start friendly and stay competitive with other people in the business,” Debruhl says.
He continues to invest in the company, with the hope that when his dad retires, he can take the reigns.
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