Ric Grummer Madison, Wisconsin Ruminant Technical Director Balchem
Please describe your agricultural background.I grew up in city, as the son of aUW – Madisonanimal science professor of swine nutrition. I gradually worked my way through college on dairy farms-both commercial and UW experimental farms.
What education are you bringing with you to this position?
I received my bachelor’s degree in dairy science from the University of Wisconsin at Madison and earned my master’s and doctoral degrees in dairy science from theUniversity of Illinois at Urbana – Champaign.
What are your new responsibilities?
I will provide technical service and research and development support and assist in expanding the global market for Balchem products.
What excites you most about working in your new role?
I spent 26 years teaching and conducting research as a faculty member at the UW – Madison Department of Dairy Science. I look forward to utilizing those skills in the commercial sector!
How will you be of most help to producers in your region or area of expertise?
I will be educating and providing technical service, research and development support to the dairy industry.
What’s your best story from the first day on the job?
The first day, my wife asks me if I need more work clothes……such as gym shorts, sweat pants, and T-shirts….. since I am working out of a home office.
Why did you choose this company?
During my academic life, my interactions with Balchem through collaborative research were always very favorable. Balchem is a research-based company that always strives to make sure they have data to support the efficacy of the products they develop and market. I had strong evidence that our values would be compatible and I would be a good fit with the company and my new colleagues.
What goals would you like to accomplish while in this position?
The bottom line is that I would like to continue utilizing my skills in research and teaching to help the dairy industry. As a professor, it was through the students I trained. In my current job, it will be through the development and implementation of products that can help dairy producers and their cows be more successful. PD
