Town, state you reside in: Mason City, Nebraska
Occupation: ag lender
Nebraska LEAD Class Number: 42
Tell us a little about yourself — where you’re from and your connection to Nebraska agriculture or natural resources.
I’m from Mason City Nebraska, where we live on my wife’s family farm. She is the sixth generation. I’m an ag lender in central Nebraska.
What motivated you to apply for the Nebraska LEAD Program?
The LEAD Program has opportunities to become a more rounded person and as I was getting older, I felt like I was getting tunnel vision. As I progressed through the program, I could see myself changing in my willingness to be more open to ideas.
What’s been the most eye-opening or impactful experience you’ve had through LEAD?
The relationships I gained. I believe many of my classmates will be lifelong friends. To spend as much time together as we did, I learned that being around a group of people that are trying to become better is very contagious. The relationships with the LEAD fellows is different from the relationships I have with other people in my life, as the fellows are all trying to do bigger things and become more respected leaders.
How has your participation in the Nebraska LEAD Program inspired you to get involved?
I am more open to things that are outside my box, and I enjoy sharing the information I have with others. I can fit into more groups, and I have the confidence to talk to people in a more rounded way.
What advice would you give to someone considering applying to the Nebraska LEAD Program?
Don’t wait, just join. I believe the earlier you can participate, the more time you have to set yourself up with better life and leadership skills.
What do you view as the biggest challenges facing agriculture in Nebraska?
Water quantity and quality issues.
What keeps you optimistic about the future of Nebraska agriculture?
The Ogallala Aquifer is the greatest resource we have to guarantee irrigation in Nebraska.
