Current Roles

• Director, Index Genetics
• Marketing Coordinator, Nichols Farms, LTD (1994–Present)
• Cattlemen’s Beef Board (2020-2026)
• Chair, International Marketing Committee – Cattlemen’s Beef Board (2023-2026)
• Executive Board Member – Cattlemen’s Beef Board (2023-2026)
• USMEF Executive Committee, Beef Committee Co-Chair (2023-2026)
• Past President – Iowa Cattlemen’s Association (2011–2012)
• Past President – Iowa Cattlemen’s Foundation (2024)

Professional

Major Accomplishments

• Over 30 years advancing beef genetics, sustainability, and global market access.
• 10+ generations of selection for feed efficiency, carcass quality, and disease resistance.
• Leadership in U.S. beef export growth and international market development.
• Partnerships with universities and industry leaders on genomic research.

Professional Organizations – Past and Present

• Cattlemen’s Beef Board (2020–2025)
• U.S. Meat Export Federation (Executive Committee, Beef Committee Co-Chair)
• Iowa Cattlemen’s Association (President 2011–2012, long-time member)
• Iowa Beef Industry Council (Former Chair)
• Iowa Cattlemen’s Foundation (President 2023)
• Cass County Beef Producers (President 1997–2000)

Education

• Bachelor of Science in Animal Science, Iowa State University – 1988
• Graduate, Anita High School – 1982

Research Projects and Partners – Current & Past

Genetics

• Ten generations of genetic improvement for feed efficiency and sustainability
• Crossbreeding strategies and carcass merit selection
• Genomic research collaborations with universities and industry leaders
• Validation through large-scale commercial customer herds (50,000+ calves annually)

Beef

• Selection for feed efficiency, tenderness, carcass quality, and BRD resistance
• GreenFeed System adoption for methane, CO₂, O₂, and H₂ monitoring
• All C-Lock and Merck health products

All Aspects of Vertical Integration

• Genetic improvement programs integrated from seedstock to commercial production
• Embryo transfer and semen supply partnerships

Animal Health

• Multi-generation selection for BRD resistance
• Data-driven health and performance tracking across herds

Hobbies / Interests / Passions

• Advancing U.S. beef exports worldwide
• Community leadership and service
• Coaching youth and supporting 4-H programs
• Agricultural innovation and sustainability

Family

• Resides in Atlantic, Iowa
• Active in local fire department and Knights of Columbus
• Proud father and grandfather, involved in family and community activities