River City Six – Ben Gadzinski

Meet Ben Gadzinski, shade specialist at Echo Systems.

Tell us a little about your business.

If a superhero wanted to start building their lair, Echo Systems would be where they’d want to go for their technology needs. While we can’t help with traps and lasers, we can provide just about everything else that a smart home (or lair) requires. That includes lighting control, security systems, distributed audio and video, automated shades, and the quality service that our clients deserve. We operate all over the United States, but our primary market is right here in the Midwest.

How did you get started in the business?

Doug Dushan, our sales and marketing manager, visited the store of my previous employer to purchase flooring. I happened to be the salesperson he talked to. Apparently, he just couldn’t get enough of working with me, so he convinced me to join the team at Echo Systems!

What’s the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally.

Transitioning into my field. My previous position was strictly sales-based, whereas at Echo Systems, I’m responsible for sales, project management, and marketing all things shades related. It’s been a lot to take on but being surrounded by competent professionals has helped me meet the challenge and grow from the experience.

Tell us a little about your family.

I’m the youngest of three children and an uncle to one incredible nephew. My partner Krystal and I are expecting identical twins in February, and we couldn’t be more excited to meet them!

What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life?

My best friend Jordan encouraging me to apply at my previous job. I was working at a burrito shop at the time, and Jordan was a frequent customer. Though he didn’t know me, he kept pushing me to apply for a sales position. I eventually gave it a shot. His belief in me changed my life and I would not be where I am today without his support.

What is the most unique and interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know?

I was born in Hong Kong, China. My parents were foreign service officers and I spent the first 10 years of my life living in China, Nepal, and Brazil.

If you could choose only one descriptive word to be remembered as, what would it be?

Magnanimous.

If you had a theme song, what would it be?

“Higher Love” by Steve Winwood.

If you had a superpower, what would it be?

Time travel. I love studying history so the ability to witness it firsthand whenever I choose is a no brainer for me.

What is your greatest talent you don’t utilize in your work life?

I can keep a soccer ball in the air without using my hands for a very long time (300+ touches for you soccer players out there!).

If you could choose any profession to be successful in, what would it be?

Video game design.

What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why?

I’ve worked with Kids Can Community Center in the past as a mentor. Having the opportunity to be a positive role model for young children is a blessing.

What is your favorite book or the last good book you read?

Ender’s Game by Orson Scott Card is my absolute favorite, but I recently enjoyed the Song of Ice and Fire collection by George R.R. Martin.

If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so?

Phone: (402) 334-4900; Email: bgadzinski@echosystemsmidwest.com; Website: echosystemsmidwest.com.