What education are you bringing with you to this position?
I earned a bachelor’s degree in animal science from the University of Illinois. I continued my education there to earn a master’s in animal science with a focus on ruminant nutrition.

Please describe your agricultural background.
I have been actively involved in agriculture and livestock production for as far back as I can remember. I grew up on our family’s livestock operation where we raised purebred Hereford cattle. Growing up, I was an active member in youth organizations, including 4-H and FFA, and exhibited livestock at many state and national shows. Throughout my collegiate career, I was on several livestock judging teams. As a graduate student, I had the opportunity to coach the 2013 National Champion State 4-H Livestock Judging Team. Today, I remain actively involved in my family’s cattle operation.

What territory will you cover?
I will serve customers throughout Indiana, Michigan, Ohio and Illinois.

What are your new responsibilities?
In my new position, I am responsible for sales, as well as customer and technical support of Vita Plus beef products and services. I will work closely with beef producers to provide nutrition and management consulting that will help yield an end product that is safe and wholesome for consumers as well as profitable for our producers.

What previous positions have you held?
Prior to joining Vita Plus, I was a graduate research assistant at the University of Illinois. This opportunity allowed me to stay actively involved in current research targeted toward the beef industry. It also helped build my knowledge base to better serve beef producers.

Who has made the biggest impact on your career?
I am fortunate to have numerous role models who have guided me to where I am today. However, my family has always had the greatest impact on me and instilled a deep passion for the beef industry within me. The way I was raised sparked my interest in cattle production and nutrition.

How will you be of most help to producers in your region or area of expertise?
I am excited to work with producers to improve beef production through increased efficiency and performance. I hope to bring my knowledge of beef production and current research, as well as the expertise of my fellow Vita Plus beef teammates, to producers in my territory. Our collective efforts can help producers make important decisions that ultimately affect their bottom lines.

Why did you choose this company?
I have always been interested in the beef industry and the possibilities that exist to increase efficiency and performance to ensure its sustainability in the future. Vita Plus has not only surrounded me with great people with the same goal in mind, but also has given me the opportunity to work directly with producers to ensure the beef industry continues to provide the growing population with a quality protein source.

What goals would you like to accomplish while in this position?
Beef production is certainly not a one-size-fits-all industry. My primary goal is to cater to the individual needs of my customers and apply the right fit when it is needed. Customizable services can make the difference. Beef producers are faced with the constant challenge of increasing performance to feed the growing population and to do so in a profitable manner. It is one of my goals to make that challenge a reality.