The IronCast

Send us Fan MailEP 13 — John Deere Technician of the Year: John ShondelmyerIn this episode of The IronCast, we sit down with a true heavyweight in the world of field service: John Shondelmyer, John Deere’s 2024 Technician of the Year and a 35-year veteran of the industry. From Doyle Equipment to Murphy Tractor to GT&E, John has seen it all... the evolution of machinery, the rise of advanced diagnostics, and the changing expectations of customers and technicians alike.John shares stories from the early days of mechanical linkages and dry steering clutches, all the way to today’s computer‑driven machines and remote diagnostics. He opens up about the lessons learned from decades in the field, the importance of communication, and why patience is one of the most underrated skills a technician can have.We also dive into:The moment he thought he’d be fired on day threeHow technology has transformed the technician’s roleWhy younger techs need accountability and mentorshipHis unexpected adventures on tugboats, racetracks, and even a near‑cult recruitmentWhat winning Technician of the Year meant to himHis passion for cookingThe legacy he hopes to leave behindJohn’s humility, humor, and hard‑earned wisdom make this one of our most insightful and entertaining episodes yet. Whether you’re a technician, a customer, or someone who loves a good story, you’ll walk away with a deeper appreciation for the people who keep the machines, and the industry, moving.“Keep plugging along. Be patient. Good things will happen.” — John Shondelmyer

Send us Fan MailCelebrating Women in Construction Week, we’re proud to feature Cindy Miller, President of BERO Equipment Rental Options, in our latest podcast episode. Cindy leads a valued partner of our Harmony branch, providing essential equipment rental solutions to customers across the region.Three years ago, she purchased the company’s assets and has since driven a remarkable transformation—earning WBE certification, expanding operational capabilities, and adding John Deere equipment to the fleet. Her leadership story reflects strategic growth, resilience, and the importance of elevating women in the construction industry.This episode explores Cindy’s journey, the evolution of BERO, and the impact of women-owned businesses in shaping the future of construction.

Send us Fan MailEric Jumper’s drive to document the construction world runs far deeper than posting videos. His work connects with veterans who’ve spent 30+ years in the dirt and, at the same time, pulls younger generations toward a trade they might’ve never considered. He’s not chasing influence, he’s chasing understanding. Don’t call him an influencer; call him a foamer, an enthusiast, a translator, and a bridge between eras of the industry. We sat down with Eric to unpack a rare 360-degree view of construction—field, media, and management—and how that mix points to what’s coming next. Listen to this episode on your way to ConExpo, and you might see Eric walking around Vegas when you're there.Eric explains why the “labor shortage” might quietly flip to an oversupply at the entry level, and how automation is the reason. When a $30k kit can run a roller all day from a phone and autonomous haul systems are within reach for repetitive sites, the classic ladder of roller to truck to seat time disappears. That shift doesn’t end careers—it demands new ones. We talk concrete skills that make people irreplaceable: GPS and rover proficiency, reading and building 3D models, drone-based topo and production tracking, field troubleshooting, and the judgment you only get by staying present long enough to learn.We dig into the rise of construction on social media: why billion‑dollar owners now ask for content, how authentic sound and simple edits can teach better than flashy cuts, and where platforms like TikTok go off the rails with unsafe stunts. Eric’s “Tier Zero” love letter to old iron sparks a candid look at reliability versus electronics, manufacturing fragility after COVID, and why moves like Deere’s plan to build excavators from plate in the U.S. could tighten supply chains and support faster parts and better uptime. On site, the biggest ROI isn’t hype—it’s drones flown daily, models done right, and GPS that eliminates rework. We also challenge whether “blue collar” still fits when cabs are quiet, seats are cooled, and joysticks do the heavy lifting.In the end: capture moments, build a personal library of knowledge, and invest in kids earlier than high school so the next generation sees building as creative, technical, and worth their time.If this conversation sharpened how you think about work, tech, and time, follow the show, share it with a friend, and leave a quick review so more people in the construction industry can find it.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of The IronCast, we sit down with Tyler Shollenberger — GTE’s Connected Support Specialist and the man keeping fleets running long before problems ever hit the jobsite. Jason pulls back the curtain on the tools, tech, and teamwork powering GT&E’s connected ecosystem, from Expert Connect to JDLink to the ever‑evolving Operation Center.Tyler shares how he went from farm life to sustainable agriculture to becoming the go‑to guy for machine telematics, diagnostics, and proactive customer support across every GT&E branch. He breaks down what JDLink really does, why Operation Center is a game‑changer (and free), how cross‑brand machine tracking works, and the surprising trends he sees before failures happen, including the most common codes and the expert alerts that help prevent costly downtime.This conversation dives into the real-world value of connected support, the behind‑the‑scenes teamwork that keeps customers moving, and the future of machine data in construction. If you’ve ever wondered what’s happening inside your equipment — or how GT&E stays one step ahead — this episode delivers the answers.

Send us Fan MailLearn how Friends In Action embodies the spirit of Christmas through caring and giving to those in need, as Rob and Reba Donnelly share their journey of serving with Friends in Action. From building airstrips in jungles and drilling wells for clean water, to shipping vital supplies across the globe, their ministry supports missionaries and pastors in the hardest-to-reach places. In this special Christmas episode of Iron Cast, Jason Gillhoolley hosts heartfelt conversations about the joy of giving. Hear how Rob’s path from PennDOT mechanic to “answer man” in missions unfolded, and how Reba’s work in communications and donor support helps fuel projects that bring hope to communities worldwide. Visit https://fiaintl.org/ to learn more about Friends In Action.*******************************************************************************This episode features a conversation with Friends in Action about the power of giving and its impact on lives abroad. Some personal religious views are expressed during the discussion. These views are solely those of the speakers and are not intended to promote, endorse, or favor any specific religion. Groff Tractor & Equipment values and supports religious freedom and respects diverse beliefs.

Send us Fan MailThis week, we're joined by John Jones, our Lehigh Valley Sales Representative out of the Bethlehem branch. With many years of experience selling John Deere Construction, John knows his equipment inside and out, and he's dedicated to helping his customers succeed on every jobsite. John is also an amazing photographer! Give him a follow: @deere_jonesExpect:Equipment and sales insights even we couldn't believe. A "fact" that Jason (our host) definitely gets wrong. Although the verdict may still be out on it... And of course... some jokes and a few riddles & MORE!Who should listen?Contractors, operators, gearheads, and anyone who loves talking iron or is interested in joining the GT&E team!Tune in now! 

Send us Fan MailAre you ready to meet GT&E's PMP Division? In this episode, we sit down with Jeremiah Lowe, Director of Paving & Material Processing Division. GT&E proudly serves as the authorized Wirtgen Group dealer covering most of Pennsylvania. Jeremiah gives an inside look at what drives this division forward, from cutting edge equipment and service to the people who keep Pennsylvania's roads running strong. And last but not least, Jeremiah settles the age-old debate once and for all... how do you actually pronounce "Wirtgen"?Who should listen?• Technicians ready to elevate their careers.• Listeners who want to learn more about the Wirtgen Group & John Deere.• Equipment service professionals passionate about The Wirtgen Group (even the Dirt side).Contact Jeremiah Lowe at [email protected] if you are interested in taking your career to the next level, or just want to learn more. He wants to hear from you! Don't forget to rate, review, and subscribe to IronCast. Share this episode with anyone who's ready to roll up their sleeves and join a team that's paving the way forward. 

Send us Fan MailIn this episode we sit down with Geoff Ruhl (yep, that's Geoff with a G) and guest host Jay Cole to talk all things field service. From last-minute calls to keep customers moving, Geoff breaks down how the GT&E service crew makes it happen. 

Send us Fan MailIronCast | Episode 5 This week we're hanging out with Josh Herb of Miller Bros. Construction. From how he found his way into the industry to the deep roots Miller Brothers has with GT&E as their local John Deere dealer, Josh keeps it real about career paths, construction life, family, and how he keeps the fleet running with a little help from his local CSA (and your host), Jason. Whether you're in the field, in the office, or just love hearing how people carve their own lane in construction, this one's got the good stuff.

Send us Fan MailTune in for Ep. 4 of IronCast and learn more about your host, Jason Gillhooley! In this episode, get to know more about the life of a CSA with GT&E, and their work on building and maintaining relationships with our customers. Guest host, Rachel Heiser, interviews Jason to detail the intricacy's in the day-to-day operations of a John Deere CSA.  

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, we sit down with Sam Davis, our talented co-op student to hear about his hands-on experience working in the shop at GT&E. Get ready for a deep dive into a work based learning program from the lens of an 18-year-old in the field. Interested in exploring a co-op opportunity with us? Reach out to our Human Resources Department - contact Samantha O-Donnell-White for more information! [email protected] | 717-409-0810 | Visit LinkedIn Profile

Send us Fan MailIn this debut episode of The IronCast, Jay Cole, Certified Dealer Instructor at GT&E, joins us to talk in-house technician training at the corporate John Deere level, and what it takes to keep our customers up and running. "Through Jay, we got to see what it looks like to feed his teams curiosity, those he's training, by explaining and leaning into the "why," and "How" it works." - Jason Gillhoolley Get ready to learn why solid training is just as important as solid iron.