Courtney Smith Sun Prairie, Wisconsin Genetic Management Processing Specialist ABS Global Inc.
What education are you bringing with you to this position?
I attended the University of Wisconsin – Platteville, where I was a member of the Pioneer Dairy Club. I graduated in May 2012 with an animal science major, dairy emphasis.
Please describe your agricultural background.
I grew up on a small registered Holstein dairy farm in Hartland, Wisconsin, where I was a part of milking, mating and monitoring the health of the herd, as well as maintaining registration and breeding records. I was involved in 4-H and grew up helping out and showing cattle at local and state level shows.
What are your new responsibilities?
As a GMS processing specialist, I use an in‐house program to ensure GMS matings are processed in a timely and efficient manner. I enter herd goals, complete accurate data entry, aid in sire selection and distribute reports to customers.
I also assist GMS evaluators and ABS representatives in troubleshooting herd profiles.
What previous positions have you held?
Before joining ABS, I was working at Moorclose Holsteins, a registered Holstein herd in Cuba City, Wisconsin.
What excites you most about working in your new role?
That I get to be a part of a team and meet and talk to a lot of new people not only in the U.S., but around the world.
Why did you choose this company?
Growing up on a farm and being involved with cattle, I knew I wanted to stay close to the dairy industry. ABS is a very successful and respected company in the dairy industry and that’s why I thought it would be a great opportunity to work for the company. PD