Join us for an engaging virtual presentation with Dr. Grant Poole, Business Development Manager at Floragenex, a leading provider of genomic services for agriculture and plant science. With over 20 years of experience in molecular diagnostics, product development, and commercial strategy, Dr. Poole will share insights into the latest advances…

Matt emphasized how we are in a whole new world of agriculture trade.  With new US tariffs being applied and retaliation against US agriculture products by trading partners, along with transactional opportunities to address long standing ag trade irritants, growers and shippers need to be aware of what is happening…

AOSCA member agencies certify around 2.5 million acres of crops and grasses annually Sarah Wilbanks serves as the Chief Executive Officer of the Association of Official Seed Certifying Agencies (AOSCA). She holds a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Education from Clemson University, a Master of Science in Agricultural Communications and…

Elina Lastro Niño's presentation explores the critical role that bees play in the seed industry, focusing on their importance in pollination, biodiversity, and crop yields. She delves into the ways that healthy bee populations contribute to the success of seed production, the challenges facing bee populations today, and the implications…

Chad helps companies qualify for and substantiate federal and state R&D tax credits. His clients span a variety of industries including agriculture, manufacturing, software development, engineering, food and beverage, and technology companies.

Janae Brady joined the ASTA team in 2020. Brady served as staff for Chairman Pat Roberts (R-Kansas) on the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry during his time as both Chairman and Ranking Member. Most recently as Senior Professional Staff, she advised the Chairman on policy issues including international…

Experienced business professional with a demonstrated history of working in a business management role. Broad range of skills from field seed production and operations management to accounting and computer programming. Strong management background with a BS in Finance, from Sacramento State College of Business Administration. Never afraid to wear a…

Daniel A. Sumner is the Frank H. Buck Jr. Distinguished Professor in the Department of Agricultural and Resource Economics, University of California, Davis. He is also the director of the University of California Giannini Foundations for Agricultural Economics. For many years he has taught “The Economics of Agricultural Sustainability” to…

Josh grew up on a custom farming operation in Southern Idaho. He started in hay production from a young age and worked in every part of the operation. After high school Josh served an LDS mission in Mexico for two years. He returned to the farm with the added benefit…

Ann Donahue is the Senior Manager of Media and Content Strategy at Western Growers. As a former journalist, she can give a behind-the-scenes look at the media landscape – and reveal how the ag industry can make an impact with its stories. Thank you to Western Growers!

Brianna Jakosa is a HR professional with over fifteen years of experience in all areas of human resources including talent acquisition, employee engagement strategy, employee training, HR technology, benefits, and performance management. Her industry expertise includes agriculture, manufacturing, healthcare and professional services. She is a SHRM Certified Professional and earned…