Rarely does the first full time job out of high school turn into a successful lifelong career. Earl Ziemer has just retired from American State Equipment after 45 years of service, starting straight out of high school. His mother dropped him off on his first day of work in Milwaukee, Wis., — several of his nine siblings were along for the ride.

Ziemer rose through the ranks, starting in the parts and shipping department, working as a mechanic and then in the paint shop. He then went on to a field mechanic position, which evolved into taking on the responsibilities of shop foreman.

Despite challenges like transferring to the Wausau, Wis., location 11 years ago, a two-hour drive from his home — more like five in the snow — he remained loyal to the company. And he’s not the only one. Several of American State’s employees have worked for the company for 30 years or more, a testament to not only the loyalty of the employees but also the company’s values and benefits.

Ziemer now plans to spend his retirement traveling the United States, hunting and fishing and spending more time with his four grandchildren.

With three locations in Wisconsin, two in Minnesota and the company’s subsidiary, Finkbiner Equipment Company in Illinois, American State Equipment sells and leases an extensive line of equipment, including Manitowoc, Grove, Gomaco, KPI-JCI, Liebherr, Kolberg-Pioneer, LaBounty, Pettibone, Sandvik, Tech Weigh, Hazemag, Astec Mobile Screens, Breaker Technology Inc. and Precision Pulley & Idler.

For more information, visit www.amstate.com.