Running a successful farming operation means getting priorities straight. For Scott Smith of Windfall, Ind., these priorities remain clear, no matter the season.

“The way we roll here is faith, family and farm,” Smith says. “Those three things are really important to help keep balance.”

For Smith, keeping balance is integral to operating his family farm and managing responsibilities off the farm. Smith owns Triple “S” Smith Farms with his wife, Terri, where they raise corn, soybeans and Red Gold tomatoes. He is currently president of the Indiana Corn Growers Association.

Early start

Smith knew from a young age that farming was important to him.

“I just had a passion to farm,” he says. “And when I got to Purdue, I just really missed farming.”

Family was also top of mind for Smith. He is a third-generation farmer, and the generations before him had a strong influence on him.

“I had very good mentors with my dad and my grandfather,” Smith adds. “And so that was one of the things that led me back to the farm.”

The Smiths soon started a family, raising three children: Shanna, Shanie and Shawn. Love for family seeps into the farm, where Smith continues to create a warm atmosphere for his employees-turned-family.

“We keep employees pretty well here because we treat them like family,” Smith says. “They also help me balance my life out.”

ICGA responsibilities

When not on the farm, Smith advocates for Indiana corn producers. “I’ve raised corn for most of my life, and this is a way to serve and give back to something that’s been given to you,” he adds.

Smith enjoys the opportunity to meet a variety of influential people. He understands there is only a certain period where growers can squeeze in the opportunity to serve and give back. Still, he recommends that others find a way to advocate for Indiana corn if possible.

Moving forward

Smith is proud to see his farming operation grow, but he is ready to take a step back and enjoy more time with his family, especially with his wife and grandson, A.J.

Thanks to Smith’s careful planning and balancing of priorities, he has a good succession plan in place that will make for a smooth transition and allow the farm to thrive.

Smith recognizes that farming was a choice he made; he did not have to farm. However, he would not change anything.

“At the end of the day, what made me farm is I wanted to farm,” Smith says. “I had the passion to farm.”

Scott Smith at a glance

Current role: Owner of Triple “S” Smith Farms
Hometown: Windfall, Ind.
Growing up: Lived on his family farm in Sharpsville, Ind.
Experience: Over 48 years of farming
Family: Wife, Terri; children, Shanna, Shanie and Shawn (Julie); grandson, A.J.
No. 1 goal: Balance faith, family and farm — in that order
Notable: Recently selected to serve as ICGA president