Ask the expert

Sami Koskela is the Head of Business Unit at Laitex, a Finnish expert company specializing in bulk material handling solutions for demanding industrial applications worldwide. For over a decade, Sami has been solving complex bulk material handling challenges across industries such as energy, wood processing, chemicals, mining and environmental technologies. In his current role, Sami is responsible for driving complex, turnkey material handling solutions, managing the entire sales process from early-stage customer engagement to final contract negotiations. He works closely with cross-functional internal teams and key external stakeholders to ensure the delivery of tailored, value-adding solutions that meet each customer’s specific process and material requirements. Sami plays a key role in helping customers overcome challenging bulk material problems by combining technical insight with practical project experience. He is well prepared to discuss, analyze, and recommend customized, full-scope material handling solutions for a wide range of demanding applications.

Jeff Lucke graduated from the University of Wisconsin – Oshkosh with a degree in International Business. Jeff subsequently obtained a post college degree from Anoka Technical College in Import/Export. Jeff joined Solimar Pneumatics as their sole sales person in 1991. Along with a staff of engineers that have 20+ years of experience in powder handling, Jeff and Solimar Pneumatics are now widely known as leading experts in the industry. Through the years the company expanded their international presence through trade shows, travel, and advertising. Solimar now sells to over 75 countries worldwide. In 2019 Jeff and two partners became the owners of Solimar Pneumatics.

Gerard van Schoten is Managing Director at HETHON, a globally active specialist in powder dosing systems. With a strong technical background and hands-on experience throughout the company, Gerard combines strategic leadership with deep process knowledge in dry bulk handling. He is widely regarded for his expertise in handling and dosing poorly flowing powders, particularly in industries requiring high precision and reliability under challenging conditions such as ATEX environments. Gerard works closely with international customers, engineers, and agents to translate complex process challenges into custom-engineered, long-term solutions. Having grown within the company from a technical role into leadership, Gerard brings a unique combination of technical credibility and commercial insight. He remains actively involved in advising on system configurations, control integration, and customer-specific adaptations—ensuring that every solution HETHON delivers is both technically sound and practically applicable. Gerard regularly supports agents and customers worldwide and is a trusted point of contact for clients seeking high-performance dosing technology for demanding industrial applications.

Chuck Johnson is the director of sales at National Bulk Equipment, located in Holland, Michigan. His professional experience includes over 25 years in the design, engineering, & sales of bulk material handling equipment & systems. Johnson holds a BS in mechanical engineering from Michigan State University.