Sixth Annual Industry Conference Builds Networks and “Connects” Ohio Agriculture

More than 350 Ohio AgriBusiness Association (OABA) members and industry professionals were on hand to engage in collaborative learning and networking at the organization’s sixth annual Industry Conference, Feb. 1 – 2 at the Columbus Marriott Northwest. The conference allowed attendees to build their networks and “connect” knowledge through a variety of sessions presented by well-respected speakers from across the country.

“This year’s OABA Industry Conference gave participants a look at the current state of agriculture, while also focusing on where the industry is heading,” said Christopher Henney, OABA president and CEO. “It was energizing to be surrounded by our members and other industry professionals who have such great vision and passion for investing in a successful agricultural industry.”

The conference addressed key topics in today’s agriculture industry, such as nutrient management, economic and trade outlook, hiring challenges, crisis preparation and more.

Keynote speaker Dave Rife of White Castle addressed how employee passion can build a family of customers during his keynote “The Power of Passion.” Rife shared his experience as a member of the White Castle family and from his time on “Undercover Boss” to give attendees a glimpse of the culture the company has cultivated with its employees.  

Other notable speakers at the two-day conference included Terry Barr, CoBank; Tom Bruulsema, International Plant Nutrition Institute; Lani Jordan, Lani Jordan Communication; Phil Farmer, FLM Harvest; Brad Rivers, Novus Ag; George Secor, Sunrise Cooperative; and several educators and researchers from The Ohio State University, Oklahoma State University, Iowa State University, Kansas State University and Purdue University.

At the Industry Dinner and Annual Meeting on Feb. 1, OABA recognized the recipients of the 2018 OABA Awards & Recognition Initiative. Andrew Gladden of Luckey Farmers Inc. received the Achievement as an Emerging Leader Award; Anne Cook of The Andersons, Inc. received the Excellence in Safety & Stewardship Award.

During the annual meeting, OABA announced new members to the Board of Directors. Additionally, the Board of Directors has new leadership for 2018-2019. Nathan Louiso of Axis Seed will serve as Chairman of the Board. Jackie Seibert of United Equity, Inc. was elected to serve as Vice Chairwoman. Andy Swerlein of Luckey Farmers Inc. transitions from his role as Chairman to Past Chairman.

The seventh annual OABA Industry Conference will be held in early 2019.