Dr. Nicole Barkley Dairy Nutritionist Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin Vita Plus
What are your new responsibilities?I am responsible for providing nutrition and technical services to dairy producers in western Wisconsin. I will provide ration balancing and troubleshooting on farms as well as assist other nutrition staff in working with their customers.
What territory will you cover?
I will work with dairy producers throughout western Wisconsin.
Please describe your agricultural background.
I grew up in Alaska where I was active in fisheries. I switched my focus to dairy during my undergraduate career at the University of Idaho where I joined the Dairy Challenge team, completed on-farm internships, and worked as a calf raiser for a summer. During my Ph.D. studies at the University of Missouri, I spent most of my days on the university’s 250-cow farm, conducting research, milking and feeding cows.
What education are you bringing with you to this position?
I earned my bachelor’s degree in animal science from the University of Idaho. I went on to earn my master’s degree in reproductive physiology and my Ph.D. in nutrition physiology from the University of Missouri.
What previous positions have you held?
This is my first career in the dairy industry since completing my Ph.D. in December 2013.
Who has made the biggest impact on your career?
In addition to my parents who have been an amazing support system, Dr. Amin Ahmadzedah and Dr. Matt Waldron, my undergraduate and Ph.D. advisors, respectively, have had a big impact on my career path. Amin introduced me to the dairy world and Matt gave me the hands-on experience necessary to have confidence on the farm.
How will you be of most help to producers in your region or area of expertise?
By working with our team of nutritionists and technical support staff, we can help producers increase herd health and productivity. We’ll conduct on-farm audits and implement strategic troubleshooting designed to fit each individual farm.
Why did you choose this company?
I chose to work at Vita Plus for multiple reasons. First, I found great value in its team approach to training and farm support. I also appreciated that it wanted my focus to be on “what is best for the producer” and not “how do I increase sales units.”
What goals would you like to accomplish while in this position?
At this point in my career, my goals are to continue personal and professional growth while developing a strong working relationship with local producers and my company team. PD
