Kelly Walstad Retires from RDO Equipment Co.

Kelly Walstad, Moorhead Account Manager, retired after 15 years with RDO Equipment Co.

After an established career in agriculture and sales, Kelly joined the RDO team in a sales role for the Vermeer product line. The transition to an unfamiliar product and sales territory was a challenge he was eager to take on, and he credits a wealth of support for making it successful, from continual training opportunities to the team around him, like the Product Specialists who helped him learn about new equipment.

With that support, Kelly went on to find success. In 2010 he was recognized by Vermeer as the World Champion salesperson for the utility product line, followed by a World Top 10 placement the following year, achievements he ranks among his proudest career moments.

It was through this recognition that Regional Sales Manager Mark Rieckhoff, who was with Vermeer at the time, first met Kelly, and the two would go on to build a strong relationship in the ensuing years.

“Kelly leaving the team will be tough for me. I’ll be saying goodbye to not only a member of my team but a friend, as well,” Mark said. “His independence and unique ways of doing business have gained him much success and respect from the customers he has served over the years.”

Looking back on his career with RDO, Kelly said the effects of RDO’s Core Values were unmistakable. He cites Play to Win! was the one he most took to heart, but he was quick to point out how seamlessly all the Core Values are stitched together, resulting in a culture of total teamwork, from the top down.

“It’s everybody: other salespeople, Sales Managers, Vice Presidents. We are all working toward the same goals, by the same playbook.”

In fact, in offering advice to new team members, he points directly back to the values that make up that playbook.

“When people talk about our Core Values, take them seriously,” he said. “Without them, you have no success. And take advantage of as much training as possible, learn as much as you can, and show people how far you are willing to go. It will be super rewarding if you do.”

Looking ahead, Kelly plans to do more traveling, particularly in the winter, before returning to enjoy the beautiful Minnesota summers and spend time with his family in the area.

“From all of us at RDO, the Vermeer team, and me, we all wish Kelly the best in this new chapter of his life called retirement,” Mark added. “Take care, Kelly, and enjoy the future. You have earned it!”

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