A Q&A session with team members who found their career path here at Great Day.

Justin Eubanks

Manager, Learning & Development

Hello, everyone! I’m Justin Eubanks, and I’m excited to share my unique journey within Great Day Improvements, from navigating a layoff during the pandemic to finding my passion for Learning and Development.

Q: Can you start by sharing a bit about your background and how you initially joined the company?

A: My journey began with an unexpected layoff during the pandemic, prompting a crucial decision to pursue a degree. Balancing part-time work and focused study, I sought an organization where I could grow professionally. Great Day caught my eye, and after interviews with the former and current plant manager, Nate Seese, I found myself stepping into a world of endless opportunity.

Q: What motivated you to pursue a career within the company?

A: What drew me to Great Day was the palpable excitement for quick process improvements during a period of rapid growth. I didn’t have a clear vision of my future at the time, but the dynamic environment and potential for growth were evident from the start.

Q: Can you share a pivotal moment that played a significant role in your early career development?

A: Heading up the Change Agents group marked a pivotal moment. Working with a motivated team, I realized the incredible power of collaboration. This experience propelled me into learning initiatives that not only impacted the plant floor but also rippled through the entire organization.

Q: How did you navigate challenges during your early career, and what did you employ to overcome them?

A: Navigating challenges was part of the journey, and what brought comfort was the realization that I wasn’t facing them alone. Collaborating as a team not only alleviated individual stress but fostered a supportive environment where shared efforts made overcoming obstacles more manageable.

Q: As you progressed in your career, were there specific skills that you worked on to enhance your professional profile?

A: As I progressed, I focused on acquiring skills in process improvement models like Six Sigma and Lean concepts. Mastering leadership became a significant part of my growth, challenging me to lead and motivate a growing team. Personal development became synonymous with professional growth.

Q: Tell us about the transition from your initial role to your new position in a different department. How did you identify this opportunity, and what steps did you take to make the move successfully?

A: The transition from my initial role to Learning and Development was an exciting phase. Supported by the company’s leadership, I split my responsibilities between manufacturing initiatives and collaborating with the HR team on expansive programs. This dual focus allowed me to merge my manufacturing expertise with a passion for learning and development.

Q: Were there specific mentors or role models who played a significant role in your career advancement? How did they influence your professional development?

A: My journey wouldn’t have been the same without mentors like Matt Moir and exceptional teammates like Nate Seese. Liz Huldin recognized my potential and presented the opportunity for my current position. Gratitude extends to others who might not be aware of their impact—Kevin Shibley, Madison Farrell, Scott Urbas, Hannah Stozic, Nicole Molley, Arnold Imes, Dan Kubick, Michael Hoy, Ed Weinfurtner, Drew Weinfurtner—thank you!

Q: Looking ahead, what are your future career goals, and how do you plan to continue your professional development within the company?

A: Looking ahead, my goals revolve around delivering impactful Learning and Development initiatives, deepening my understanding of the home improvement landscape, and honing collaborative skills. My overarching goal is to ensure everyone at Great Day has the tools and opportunities for success.

Q: Any advice for colleagues or individuals aspiring to advance their careers within the organization?

A: Completing this survey has been a humbling experience, reminding me of the importance of connections, a team player mentality, and the abundance of opportunities for those willing to embrace growth. To colleagues and aspiring professionals, my advice is to foster meaningful connections and understand that growth, whether individual or collective, is always within reach.

As I reflect on my journey, I’m grateful for the support, mentorship, and opportunities that have shaped my career at Great Day Improvements. Here’s to continued growth and success for all of us on this inspiring journey!