In the corporate world, there are individuals who are not just employees but indispensable pillars of an organization. Dana Weyandt, affectionately known as "The Bun" at Tranztec, is one such individual. With more than two decades (18 years if we go by the official work statistics) of dedicated service to the company, Dana has played a pivotal role in its growth and success. She is our Director of Contracts & Administration and as Toby Miller, one of the founders of Tranztec, reminisces, Dana has been a part of the company's journey since its inception. He recognizes her as employee #2. Deb Gordon, founder, says “Dana is unwavering and committed. She is honest and can be relied on no matter the task. She thinks outside the box and is super resourceful. She knows Tranztec through and through and is dedicated to a fault. She has a really cool sense of humor and adds fun to our team. Dana is extraordinary.” Dana is also extremely humble so in a twist from our normal interview process we switched things up and we have asked the people who know her best to describe her, and the impact she has had on Tranztec because we want to surprise the person who does so much for us.
Mackenzie Forry, our resident Dana specialist and niece (as well as our Administrative & Accounting Specialist), helped us a lot in pulling this together. Beyond her professional life, Dana's personal qualities shine through. Dana's unbreakable bond with her two older sisters, her niece, and her new grand nephew speaks volumes about her devotion to her family. Her love for her rescue dog Bentley and her unquenchable enthusiasm for family vacations in Ocean Isle Beach, NC, and any excuse to go shopping, are how Dana relaxes. Her first vehicle was a mini-van that she packed full of friends and made cool. Growing up Dana played softball her entire life, honing her skills as a pitcher before coaching
Fear the Bun: Within Tranztec, Dana is known as "The Bun," a nickname given to her because when she would put her hair up, everyone needed to watch themselves, Dana was in get-down-to-business-get-stuff-done mode. Brad McMichael, Vice-President of Sales, quips “Dana is the true boss of the company, striking fear in anyone that dares waste company time or money. She is the one I truly feared the most when the "bun" comes out but Dana has grown to be one of my closest friends.” Toby Miller declares “Dana keeps us on track, ensures that everything is done in the best interest of the company, and she holds the unofficial title of PITA for me personally which she advertises proudly.” James King remarks “Some have called her "The Bun", you know, the schoolteacher kind that can look at a document and instantly call out anything and everything that is problematic and won’t settle for anything less than perfect. I would simply call her ‘The Best’”.
It is not a reach to say Dana is the backbone of Tranztec. Toby says “Dana has always been the right hand to everything that Deborah and I have been involved in and she is an integral part of building Tranztec. I never have worried about any task that Dana takes on because I know, beyond a shadow of a doubt, that it not only will get done but I can be sure it will be done better than I would’ve done it.” Deb continues “Dana is extraordinary. Toby and I have always been able to count on Dana. If you cut her, she would bleed Tranztec blue.” Dana’s impact on the company's growth is immeasurable, and she is the "glue" that keeps Tranztec together. Adam Koltnow, President, gets straight to the point “you can teach skills but you can’t teach attitude. In my experience most people don’t thrive under stress and keeping a positive attitude is often not common. Between work stress and Dana getting healthy not one time has her attitude ever changed. Not one time! To keep such a positive attitude while continuing to excel in her job is a rare combo that should be appreciated and applauded.”
In closing, Dana's unwavering commitment, honesty, and incredible work ethic have left an indelible mark on all of us. She's not just a colleague; she's a trusted friend who has consistently gone above and beyond to ensure Tranztec's success. Her impact on our team extends beyond the office walls. Her sense of humor, resilience, and dedication to her family shine through in every aspect of her life. From her adventurous days at the campground to coaching softball and being a great aunt, Dana's boundless love for her family and friends is truly heartwarming. Despite facing personal challenges, Dana has triumphed over adversity, demonstrating her unwavering spirit and positivity. Her infectious attitude, even in the face of stress, sets a shining example for all of us. Dana's contributions to Tranztec have been immeasurable, and she remains the cornerstone of our company's success.
We leave you with these quotes from your colleagues:
“Dana – thank you for everything you have done for Tranztec, for Deborah and for me over the years. Tranztec is what it is today in no small part because of you. We are and have been so very blessed to have you as our foundational employee.” – Toby Miller
“Thank you, Dana for all the years of standing strong with Toby & I and our team. We are blessed to have you on our team and as a true friend.” – Deborah Gordon
“You are a superstar!” – James King
“Dana, it is truly an honor to work with you every day. You are always willing to go above and beyond for those around you, and inspire others to do the same. You embody what it means to be a Tranztec employee. We all know the “fear the bun” Dana, but if you’re lucky enough, you know the big-hearted, fun-loving Dana, too” – Mackenzie Forry
“A resilient warrior, dedicated to nothing but making sure Tranztec's best interests are in mind with every business decision we make. I'm not sure if there is one person at Tranztec that is more valuable or core to our success as Dana.” – Brad McMichael
“I have worked with Dana for over 10 years. In that time she has consistently been one the friendliest and most helpful people I have ever met. Dana will always be one of the keys to the Tranztec culture. We're lucky to have her with us.” – Ray Stacy
“
A POEM FOR A PITA
The point of being a PITA,
hair tight up in a bun
to keep you on track day and night,
No point in having fun.
Your timesheet must be submitted,
your billing to be done.
Keep your fingers moving she says,
till all the work is none.
Pester, pester pester
Until her words sink in.
I need you to do this for me now,
is that O.K. pun-kin?
Her nudges, ever firm yet light,
echoing with some jest.
Though she’s a pain every now and then,
She truly is the best. “ – John Bolitho
From everyone at Tranztec, thank you, Dana, for your dedication, your unyielding support, and your enduring friendship. You are, and always will be, an extraordinary part of our Tranztec family. Here's to many more years of fun, hard work, and success. Fear the bun!