Meet Jonathan Buskirk, who started as a draftsman at John Zink and is now a flares retrofit applications engineer, solving unique customer challenges. Drawn to the company’s supportive culture and focus on self-actualization, Jonathan quickly realized John Zink was the perfect place to grow and explore a variety of skills. Today, he’s helping customers tackle flaring challenges, combining technical expertise with commercial strategy. Jonathan’s journey highlights not only his passion for engineering but also the innovative and empowering environment that makes John Zink stand out.
When did you join John Zink?
I joined John Zink as a draftsman right after graduating college in the summer of 2023. What drew me to John Zink was what I heard about the supportive work culture and the emphasis on self-actualization at both John Zink and Koch as a whole. This convinced me that John Zink was a company where I could not only grow but be encouraged to learn a variety of skillsets throughout my career.
What’s your role here, and what’s a typical day like for you?
As an applications engineer, my job is to provide both technical and commercial assistance to customers, helping them find unique solutions for all of their flaring needs. My day-to-day involves explaining our solutions and products to customers, estimating projects, designing flare equipment, preparing quotes, and managing accounts.
How has your career grown since joining John Zink? What roles have you taken on, and what have you learned?
I started my career as a draftsman at John Zink, which gave me a solid foundation in understanding how our equipment is fabricated and how different disciplines collaborate throughout a project’s lifecycle. This role sparked my interest in the commercial side of engineering.
Transitioning into the applications engineer role has been incredibly rewarding. I’ve developed skills in negotiation, sales, customer engagement, project estimating, and overall business strategy—all of which have contributed significantly to my growth.
How would you describe the culture at John Zink? Can you provide an example of a moment that embodies this culture?
The culture at John Zink truly focuses on self-actualization and putting employees first. I don’t think many companies would encourage a new employee with minimal experience to switch roles within the company after realizing another role might be a better fit—but that’s exactly what John Zink did for me. This kind of support speaks volumes about the culture here.
John Zink is known for its innovation. Can you share how you contribute to this innovative environment in your role?
In my role, I’m empowered to contribute to product sales strategies, product design, new product development, and internal business process improvements. Having the freedom to be creative and impactful in these areas makes innovation a daily part of my work.
Which PBM principle resonates with you the most, and how do you apply it in your role to create value?
Economic thinking is the PBM principle I apply most often. Whether it’s negotiating project terms or contributing to product sales strategies, this principle guides me in creating value for both the company and our customers.
Reflecting on your time at John Zink, what makes you most proud to be part of this team?
What makes me most proud to be part of John Zink is its reputation for quality, its incredible people, and its amazing culture.
What’s your favorite book or movie—and why do you love it?
Braveheart, because what guy doesn’t want to be William Wallace?!
