It is with a mix of sadness and gratitude that the Minnesota Turkey Growers Association (MTGA) Board of Directors announces Steve Olson’s departure as Executive Director, effective June 28.
Since 2000, Olson has played a critical role in the development and success of the organization.
“We will miss Steve and his inspiring leadership,” said MTGA President Paul Kvistad, a turkey farmer from Wood Lake, Minn. “We wish him the best of luck in this next chapter of his life and we thank him for almost 19 years of dedicated service.”
Olson’s accomplishments included:
- The growth of Turkey To Go, MTGA’s State Fair food stand, as a major revenue stream for MTGA programs;
- More than doubling the size of the Midwest Poultry Federation Convention, which has become the largest trade show in the U.S. that is 100% focused on poultry and was recently named one of the 50 fastest growing trade shows in the country;
- Meeting the challenges of the highly-pathogenic avian influenza outbreak that hit Minnesota in 2015, which was the largest foreign animal disease outbreak the U.S. has ever seen;
- Creation of a Student Careers Program two years ago for the Midwest Poultry Federation Convention to help attract a new workforce to the turkey industry.
“I've thoroughly enjoyed my nearly 19 years with MTGA, especially getting to know the growers, their families, and the organization’s allied members,” said Olson. “This is truly a special industry, and it’s been rewarding to work with growers and our talented staff."
Olson is looking forward to his next opportunities. “I wish MTGA continued success and appreciate the support I've had from growers, allied members, staff and our partners at the University, Board of Animal Health and other farm organizations.”
