To put it simply, the rural American lifestyle builds character. The people raised in rural America are often the ones who go on to feed, lead, and serve our country. Today’s guest, Missouri Soy’s CEO Gary Wheeler, has done all three. In his role, he continues to spearhead legislation and representation for Missouri’s soybean farmers. 

Wheeler has a Bachelor of Science in agriculture and a Master of Business Administration. He also proudly served his state and country for 11 years in the Missouri Army National Guard. He has been involved in many agriculture organizations including the U.S. Farmers & Ranchers Alliance, U.S. Grains Council and U.S. Meat Export Federation, Missouri Society of Association Executives, Missouri Farmers Care, Missouri Economic Development Council, Missouri Chamber of Commerce and the Jefferson City Environmental Quality Commission.

Tune in to this episode to hear more about what Missouri Soy is doing to educate consumers and support rural America. 

What you’ll learn: 

• Gary’s background growing up in the small town of Risco, Missouri where his passion for agriculture started at an early age
• Gary’s experience in the military and how it shaped his perspective of rural America
• Gary’s journey to a career in the Missouri Department of Agriculture
• The importance of having the right people on staff and how to make that discernment
• The big picture initiatives that Missouri Soy is working on, from education to communication to policies
• The challenges of politics and legislation in state-funded organizations
• Details on the Center for Soy Innovation and the opportunities it provides for education