I am a fourth-generation farmer and together with my wife, Tara, and our three children Emmett, Cassidy and Quin, we operate a grain farm west of Acme.
I have served as a UFA delegate and farmer representative since 2015, a position that has allowed me to advocate for member interests while also collaborating on the government relations committee. My passion for UFA is about ensuring it remains a strong, viable business partner for our members and customers.
I believe strongly in ag-vocating for our industry and bridging the urban/rural gap is a family passion. I have extensive experience leading agriculture organizations and advancing international trade. In 2011, we were awarded Alberta's Outstanding Young Farmers award for our sustainable production, business practices and environmental stewardship. Last fall, we participated in Crop Life Canada's web docu-series "RealFarmLives.ca", which showcased a typical family farm and how companies like UFA help with crop protection products. I was asked by Alberta's Minister of Agriculture and Forestry to sit as a director on the newly created RDAR (Results Driven Ag Research) board; its mandate is to support Alberta's agriculture and food sectors in achieving their full potential through producer led strategic investments in research and innovation. In 2020, I was also asked to join the Alberta Agriculture Economic Recovery Team, providing insight and a strategic action plan for Alberta's economic recovery directly to the Government of Alberta.
As a UFA director, I am committed to ensuring the long-term success of our cooperative by building on its rich history, while looking to the future, and ultimately helping to make the best decisions for our members and customers.
Giving back to the communities we serve will always be a priority. I am active in my community, coaching school sports, sitting on community boards and as a member of Acme Elk Lodge #216. Along with advocating for our industry, I also have the passion, the experience, and the drive to ensure that the communities where our members live and work, continue to thrive.