In the heart of Billings lies a unique corporate member of Billings TrailNet, contributing not only to the city’s economic landscape but also to its vibrant community spirit. Yellowstone Valley Parts and Equipment (YVPE), led by owner Jeff Dyk, has been a proud supporter of Billings TrailNet since 2021.
The journey to YVPE’s facility on Highway 312 is an adventure in itself. One can’t miss the unmistakable sight of a giant crankshaft from a locomotive engine, with a d2 dozer perched on top. During the festive season, this industrial sculpture transforms into a beacon of holiday cheer with a light-up Santa and reindeer.
Jeff shares, “People drive down the highway and thank us for putting it up. We’ve been doing that for about the past 10 years.”
So, why is YVPE a corporate member of Billings TrailNet? According to Jeff, it’s a commitment that stems from a desire to give back to the community. He explains, “If we’ve had a good year financially, we talk among our staff about nonprofits who make a big difference in our community we can help. Billings TrailNet is doing such a good job developing trails; it was an easy decision.”
The inspiration for their involvement in Billings TrailNet came from within the YVPE team. Employee Adam VanSetten, an avid runner, suggested directing their support towards Billings TrailNet. This decision aligns with the company’s principle of contributing to initiatives that make a positive impact on the local community.
When asked about the Skyline Trail, a flagship project for the city and Billings TrailNet, Jeff expresses his admiration, saying, “It’s awesome. I can’t believe how they put a trail there, with the gullies and ravines. It should become a popular trail from the west end because of the scenery. It’s a huge draw.”
Despite not having used the trail himself yet, Jeff plans to explore it upon retirement. In the meantime, he and his wife, Jamie, enjoy biking and walking on trails during the winter months in Arizona, where they spend their free time.
YVPE, a salvage company specializing in tearing down construction heavy equipment for parts, has been a part of Jeff Dyk’s journey for over four decades. Starting at the CAT company 45 years ago, Dyk spent 20 years there before founding YVPE with a partner. Today, the company, which also employs Dyk’s two sons, is deeply rooted in the recycling business.
Looking toward the future of Billings, Dyk acknowledges the challenges the city faces, particularly in dealing with crime. He emphasizes the need to address the issue while focusing on the positive aspects of the community. Expressing his hope for Billings to become an attraction, Dyk underscores the importance of the trail system in achieving this vision.
He states, “Any time you have a good trail system in the community, it’s a big help. But we’ve got to get rid of that crime. I hope the community will become more open to funding a jail. There is more good here than there is bad.”
In essence, YVPE stands not just as a salvage company but as a pillar of support for the community it calls home. With a dedication to sustainability, community well-being, and the future of Billings, Jeff Dyk and Yellowstone Valley Parts and Equipment exemplify the positive impact that businesses can have beyond their bottom line.