River City Six – Jason Kusler
Meet Jason Kusler, senior business development representative at Control Depot.
Tell us a little about your business.
We provide innovative, cost-effective control solutions and web-based facility integration designs across a spectrum of building types in the residential and commercial markets. Control Depot is the premier controls distributor in our area, specializing in HVAC controls, and is also a member of Honeywell’s elite Diamond Distributor Club of advanced building automation distributors.
How did you get started in the business?
I started my career in automation technology as a product specialist for a laboratory robotics manufacturer, then moved into large scale building automation in 2012. I’ve always been fascinated with and enjoyed learning about new technologies.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced professionally?
Control Depot has lots of options for building technology products and solutions. HVAC controls, security and access controls, lighting controls, and even gas detection systems. My biggest challenge has been staying informed on all the industry leading technology we offer in a fast-paced industry that’s always evolving.
Tell us a little about your family.
I’ve been married to my beautiful wife Molly for 15 years. We have two amazing children; my son Gavin (11) and daughter Grace (9).
What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life?
Deploying to Afghanistan in 2004 with Task Force 168.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off?
I like to play tennis, watch movies, ride my bike, go hiking, and go for a long drives in the country.
What is the most unique or interesting thing about you that most people probably don’t know?
I’ve worked in the aviation industry for almost 20 years. Every morning, I pushback an aircraft worth millions of dollars from its gate. All of this before the sun rises.
Who inspires you?
My Uncle Richard Tunnell. He successfully owned and operated several businesses throughout his lifetime, and his hard work and dedication inspired me to bring the same kind of purpose to the office every day.
Which talent would you most like to have?
Storytelling. I’ve always wanted to be able to capture the attention of a group and make them laugh. When I was a kid, I wanted to be a comedian.
What local nonprofit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why?
No One Left Behind (NOLF), a nation-wide association of wartime allies in the U.S. dedicated to ensuring that America keeps its promise to our interpreters from Iraq and Afghanistan. These brave men and women served right alongside U.S. military and government personnel, and in many cases, directly saved American lives. During my service, I worked with interpreters every day, and they were vital to our successes in theatre and getting us home safe. I feel we owe them a great debt of gratitude, and in order to repay that, we must work to break down bureaucratic barriers in order to expedite their entrance to the USA. They’ve earned it.
What is your favorite book or the last good book you read?
The Impossible Climb by Mark Synnott.
What is your favorite movie?
Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade.
If you could have dinner with one famous person from the past or present, who would it be?
Chuck Yeager, WW2 Ace and first pilot to break the sound barrier.
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so?
(402) 934-0078; jkusler@controldepotinc.com; www.controldepotinc.com.