June 30 is my official last day working on Feed & Grain. When I started with this media property in 1979, I had no idea where it would take me or how long I might be involved in this dynamic industry. What I thought was my next job became my career, with constant challenges, an ever-changing marketplace and, most importantly, the opportunity to develop and enjoy lasting friendships.
I have so many people to thank. I smile, thinking back on my early conversations with people who became great mentors and friends. Bill McLean of Essmueller, Dale Presnell at Hayes & Stolz, Van Buchanan and Steve McNulty at Rubber Belting & Hose, Dean Sweet of Sweet Manufacturing, Dick Lucas of Scott Equipment, Jon Baker at Sidney Manufacturing, Dick and Kay Kobetz of Sunfield Engineering, Clint Steele of Todd & Sargent, Glen Andler of Vita Builders, Jim Rogers of WAM and so many more. Their patience and willingness to discuss industry issues and marketing needs with me helped me quickly learn and engage in this industry.
As important were the many people at the American Feed Industry Association (AFIA), the Grain Elevator and Processing Society (GEAPS), the National Grain and Feed Association (NGFA) and the International Association of Operative Millers (IAOM), who also invested time to listen to me, exchange ideas and talk about their industry needs and objectives and how we might be able to help communicate and provide educational opportunities to Feed & Grain’s audiences. I appreciated being involved on committees for these strong organizations.
I’ve talked with many former co-workers and industry peers who have recently retired. We chat about what they enjoy and what they miss. What they miss most are the people. The folks with whom they shared ideas but could also discuss the job challenges, the headaches, the fun, the stress and the wins. Writing this on my way out the door … it’s what I’m missing already.
I have no worries about Feed & Grain. It’s in great hands: Elise Schafer is the new publisher leading the team of Jill Draeger, Kevin Freel, Marie Escobar, Steven Kilger and Lisa Cleaver. They will continue producing and delivering important content for our audiences.
Finally, for those of you young enough to believe four decades is “forever,” it’s not. If you can find a mentor and be a mentor, it’s amazing how fast a career will grow and how much fun you’ll have.
All my best! ■
