BJ Chastain

After 49 years at Linder, BJ Chastain retires and plans to embrace gardening

For nearly half a century, Barbara J. “BJ” Chastain worked for Linder Industrial Machinery Company (originally H.F. Mason Equipment Company, which merged with Linder in 1989). After starting out on the parts counter, she has spent the latter part of her career as an administrative assistant at the company’s Plant City, Fla., office.

Barbara J. “BJ” Chastain, Administrative Assistant, Linder

“I take care of the credits that come through from our manufacturers, approve invoices, help out with purchasing parts through our company card and reconciling the purchases, and am occasionally the travel coordinator for our employees on the road,” explained Chastain. “The people have made it for me. All in all, everybody in the office is close, and it’s been good. I’ve watched people join the company, have kids, and then their kids start working here as well.”

Chastain notes that some of her favorite memories at the company have been interacting with the Komatsu and Sumitomo employees who visit the office from Japan, which is a unique opportunity.

“I’ve always enjoyed meeting the Japanese employees that come in and learning about their culture and their work ethic,” said Chastain.

At work, Chastain’s office is decorated with a wide range of knick-knacks related to gardening. After retiring, Chastain looks forward to expanding the garden at her house.

“Growing up, my family always had a garden,” noted Chastain. “My nephew recently built me several planters that are about eight feet long and three feet deep, and they’re almost at my height, so I don’t have to bend over. That makes gardening a whole lot easier. I can just stand there and do what I want to do.” ■