Erin Berger Associate Vice President Outreach, Training and Sales Support Bonduel, Wisconsin AgSource Cooperative Services
What education are you bringing with you to this position?
Everything that I know about the agricultural industry, dairy in particular, I have learned from either firsthand experience or the producers I have served. This to me has been the most valuable training I could have asked for.
Please describe your agricultural background.
My background in agriculture began when I was 18 and wanted to try milking cows instead of waitressing. It’s now 17 years later, and I haven’t looked back.
What territory will you cover?
While my office is in two locations, Shawano and Verona, Wisconsin, my territory has no bounds. Wherever there is an AgSource member, I, or someone on my team, will have contact with them.
What are your new responsibilities?
In a nutshell, education of employees, members, industry representatives and consumers. The agricultural industry is evolving and continues to evolve to meet the future needs of the world. The company is dedicated to delivering new products and services to our membership, and I feel that my responsibility is to support the success of these programs through education and outreach.
Together, with my team of DHI Service Representatives, we will be working to deliver training programs, support materials and educational seminars on a variety of topics throughout the AgSource marketing area.
What previous positions have you held?
I began my career at Cooperative Resources International and AgSource as a regional support technician in 2004. I briefly worked for Genex as a breeding programs specialist until the opportunity arose for the regional sales manager position at AgSource.
Prior to my career at CRI, I worked as a DHI field technician for DairyOne Cooperative in western New York, as well as a milker and assistant herdsman for Mammoser Farms, Inc. in Eden, New York.
Who has made the biggest impact on your career?
There are three. First, Rick, Ron and Jerry Mammoser from Mammoser Farms in Eden, New York. If they didn’t believe in a girl who knew nothing about cows, I would not be here today. They gave me a chance and it paid off.
Second, Dave Heald from DairyOne Cooperative. He introduced me to milk testing and was the best trainer I could have asked for. It is hard to make milk testing fun to a newbie, but Dave did! And finally, Pat Baier from AgSource. He pushed me to believe in myself and I am glad that he still does.
How will you be of most help to producers in your region or area of expertise?
I will be able to work throughout the industry to bring forth ideas that will be of benefit to producers. Working with our members’ management teams is something that we would like to expand. AgSource plays a valuable role at team meetings because we offer an unbiased analysis of the dairy and our representatives can help interpret the data.
Why did you choose this company?
I believe in the core values of a cooperative. Since my career began here in 2004, AgSource has upheld those values and it is something I am proud to be a part of.
What goals would you like to accomplish while in this position?
Current goals include developing a continuing education program for AgSource staff, bridging the informational gap with the consumer and establishing AgSource as an industry leader for producer education. I also want to become a partner in education in area schools, colleges, professional programs.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
It is hard to answer this one. I want to be at AgSource in 5 years, leading a successful training division, while growing our outreach program. Is that where I will be? It depends on the needs of the industry and AgSource. However, one thing I know for certain, I will always be a part of the Cooperative Resources International family. PD
