For nearly 12 years, Dante Jarvis-Turner has been a dedicated technician with Kirby-Smith Machinery Inc. (KSM) in Tulsa, Okla., building a career rooted in curiosity, adaptability and hands-on problem-solving. What began as a simple love for working on cars evolved into a long-term profession in heavy equipment — one that continues to challenge and motivate him every day.
“I always enjoyed working on cars, just anything I could,” shared Jarvis-Turner, who went to Tulsa Tech for automotive training. “I had a friend who worked on forklifts who recommended I go into heavy equipment, and that’s why I got into working on machines.”
Jarvis-Turner started in the shop before quickly advancing to a field service role. Today, he covers a wide territory stretching from I-35 to Arkansas and into southern Kansas and Missouri. His work requires not only technical skill but also independence and strong communication with customers. Each day brings something different, which is exactly what keeps him engaged.
“Being able to have an open mind and adapt to an ever-changing industry is the most important skill,” Jarvis-Turner emphasized. “You have to be willing to learn new things and try something different. That’s what keeps you moving forward in this career.”
Jarvis-Turner takes pride in responding quickly to customer needs, recalling a recent job where he had a customer up and running in short order. Moments like that reinforce why he enjoys the work.
“There can be tough days, but solving problems and helping customers get back up and running makes it worth it,” said Jarvis-Turner. “It’s always rewarding to leave a jobsite when you know you limited the downtime, and the customer’s machine is productive again.”
Selected for ATC
Jarvis-Turner’s dedication hasn’t gone unnoticed. Being selected to represent KSM in Komatsu’s Advanced Technician Competition (ATC) earlier this year boosted both his confidence and sense of recognition.
“It means that Kirby-Smith sees me as a very good technician, which makes me happy,” commented Jarvis-Turner. “Doing the competition has brought up my confidence in being a technician, especially with troubleshooting.”
Jarvis-Turner credits KSM’s strong training culture as another reason he’s stayed so long. With access to ongoing training programs and the ability to expand his skills, he feels supported in his growth and future career goals, which may include transitioning into a technical communicator or sales support role.
Outside of work, Jarvis-Turner is a family man. He and his wife, Celeste, have two sons, who are 11 and 3. Much of their free time is spent traveling across the country for BMX racing, a passion sparked by their oldest son. A Tulsa native, Jarvis-Turner also grew up around racing himself, having spent his younger years drag racing.
Hear more from Dante about his career, life in field service and experience competing at Komatsu’s Advanced Technician Competition.
