Allison Kopesky Marketing Associate Animart Inc. Waupun, Wisconsin
What education are you bringing with you to this position?
Bachelors of Science degree in agricultural economics with minors in public relations and advertising and agricultural communications from North Dakota State University, Fargo, North Dakota, December 2013.
Please describe your agricultural background.
I grew up in Lakeland Shores, Minnesota – an eastern suburb of St. Paul – and have little experience with dairy. Throughout high school and college I was active in Agribusiness Club, National Agri-Marketing Association (NAMA), 4-H and FFA. My mother grew up on a crop farm in Carroll, Iowa, where her brothers continue to farm, and my father’s family grew strawberries in Eden Prairie, Minnesota.
What territory will you cover?
As a secondary job title to marketing associate, I am also a category coordinator. So I do not have territories, but rather categories that include: antibiotics, hoof care, vaccines, calf care supplies, identification, calf health, needles and syringes, general supplies, swine and equipment.
What are your new responsibilities?
I develop and execute marketing launch plans for assigned product categories and channel products, assist with public relations, create campaign sales promotional materials and website communication.
What previous positions have you held?
- Marketing coordinator, Erickson Oil Products/Freedom Valu Center, Hudson, Wisconsin, May 2012 to May 2014
- Agricultural communication intern, Farmer, Lumpe + McClelland, Wazyata, Minnesota, December 2011
Who has made the biggest impact on your career?
Glenn Boettcher, FFA chapter advisor at Stillwater Area High School. He told me, "You never know until you try." He taught CIS (College in the School) animal science through the University of Minnesota, where I had my first encounter with working hands-on with cattle and livestock.
Shelly Swandal, department of agribusiness and applied economics advisor. She told me that if I set goals for myself, I can do great things and become a risk taker. She was there to mentor me through my class schedule and student organizations.
How will you be of most help to producers in your region or area of expertise?
Initially, I will be of most help to our sales personnel. I will train them on products while expressing the feature and benefit statements. They will turn to producers and explain to them the positive impact it will create on their farm. Animart also attends some of the largest tradeshows around the country, so I will be part of creating a demand and market for new leads.
Why did you choose this company?
The job title and description is what first caught my attention. After driving out for a tour just days after my first interview, it was apparent the passion and dedication for sustainable agriculture and in particular the dairy industry which I desired to be a part of. As part of their mission statement, Animart strives to increase awareness and to educate internal and external customers.
What goals would you like to accomplish while in this position?
To contribute to the ongoing improvements dairy producers are enforcing on their farms as well as improving our product lines and to better serve the customers and their animals. I am looking to expand my personal growth and industry knowledge. PD
