At Next Generation Inc. (NGI), our consultants do more than implement solutions; they build lasting partnerships and help our clients grow with confidence. One of the standout people doing exactly that is Brian Skutch, ERP/HCM Consultant and natural problem-solver with a passion for both systems and people.
Brian’s day-to-day role is anything but routine. “What I love about this job is that I’m never doing the same thing two days in a row,” he explains. “Depending on the project phase, I might be reviewing business requirements, training end users, building documentation, or troubleshooting a new deployment. Each day includes a mix of reviewing, planning, collaborating, analyzing, learning, and solving problems.”
A typical day starts with checking emails, organizing tasks, and preparing for client meetings. These can involve anything from gathering requirements and offering project updates to providing go-live support and conducting training sessions. “After meetings, I always take time to review key takeaways and analyze how client requests may impact the broader project. From there, I’m either designing, testing, or fine-tuning solutions. No two projects are the same. Every one of them presents new challenges and learning opportunities.”
When asked what he finds most rewarding, Brian says it comes down to two things: solving tough problems and developing relationships. “We’re there to help teams implement change and improve their processes. But more importantly, we’re helping the people behind those processes. Seeing that moment when it finally clicks for someone and they take ownership of the new system—that’s what makes it all worth it.”
One recent highlight? Brian was part of NGI’s first training cohort for a new software platform. After earning his certification, he volunteered to mentor incoming trainees. “Teaching others helped reinforce my own understanding, and I was proud to see everyone I mentored pass. It’s important to me to pay it forward wherever I can.”
Brian also believes collaboration across departments is essential. “Even when a solution is department-specific, there are always broader impacts to consider. I try to take a cross-functional view and help clients do the same, making sure everyone understands how changes affect the bigger picture. That way, we avoid rework later and make sure everyone’s aligned.”
In his experience, success in consulting is more than just technical knowledge. “You can be the most technically skilled person in the room, but if you can’t communicate clearly or build trust, it’s going to be tough. I rely most on soft skills, especially adaptability, communication, and problem-solving.”
That people-first mentality is what drew Brian to NGI. “The support and camaraderie here are unmatched. I know I can count on my teammates, whether I need help on a project or just someone to bounce ideas off of. And when someone on the team has a win, it’s always celebrated.”
Brian describes NGI’s culture in three words: professional, supportive, and rewarding. His favorite team memory? Tackling an escape room together during a company event. “It was awesome to see how people from different departments worked together to solve each room. Everyone’s unique strengths came through.”
NGI’s approach to employee growth has made a lasting impact on Brian’s career. “We’re encouraged to challenge ourselves, step outside our comfort zones, and pursue continued learning. Having that kind of support makes it easier to take risks and grow from them.”
Outside of work, Brian is happiest outdoors. He enjoys hiking, camping, birding, kayaking, snowboarding, and has completed two impressive thru-hikes, including the Tour du Mont Blanc across the French, Swiss, and Italian Alps. If he could trade jobs for a day, he’d be an astronaut. “Seeing Earth from the International Space Station and experiencing 16 sunrises and sunsets in a day, that would be unforgettable.”
The best career advice Brian’s ever received? “You don’t need to know everything. Be honest, ask for help, and when you gain experience, pass that knowledge on to someone else.”
