The Soy Transportation Coalition (STC) has elected new officers and outlined its strategic initiatives for 2025 during its annual meeting held in Mobile, Alabama, on November 21, 2024. The leadership changes and forward-looking agenda underscore the organization's commitment to enhancing the transportation infrastructure critical to soybean farmers' success.
Mike Koehne of Greensburg, Indiana, was elected as the new chairman of the STC. Koehne, who previously served as secretary-treasurer, brings a wealth of experience to the role, including his current positions on the boards of the Indiana Soybean Alliance, the American Soybean Association, and the U.S. Soybean Export Council.
Upon his election, Koehne emphasized the importance of transportation improvements in boosting soybean farmers' competitiveness. "Improving transportation is one of the most effective ways to improve the competitiveness of soybean farmers," he stated, expressing his pride in the organization's track record and his eagerness to build upon its successes.
Joining Koehne in leadership roles are Raylen Phelon of Melvern, Kansas, as vice chairman, and C.J. Chalfant of Hartford City, Indiana, as secretary-treasurer. Both new officers highlighted the STC's focus on tangible improvements to the agricultural supply chain and its commitment to helping farmers remain profitable in the face of industry challenges.
The STC board outlined several key initiatives for 2025, including:
- Advocating for increased investment in the inland waterways system
- Enhancing the resilience of bridges in key soybean export regions
- Supporting rail expansion at the Port of Kalama
- Implementing innovative methods for rural bridge repair and replacement
- Promoting infrastructure investments to accommodate increased soybean meal production
- Encouraging greater use of the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence Seaway for soybean exports
The meeting also marked the conclusion of service for outgoing chairman Chris Brossart of North Dakota and board member Tim Gottman of Missouri, both of whom reached their term limits.
Mike Steenhoek, executive director of the STC, expressed confidence in the new leadership team and their ability to continue the organization's momentum in promoting a transportation system that enhances farmers' global competitiveness.
As the soybean industry faces evolving challenges and opportunities, the STC's renewed focus on infrastructure and transportation efficiency positions it to play a crucial role in shaping the future of soybean farming and trade in the United States.
