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Steve Olson has left his MTGA post after 19 years of leadership.

July 17, 2019

2 Min Read
MTGA executive director, Steve Olson in convention food line
AT POULTRY’S SERVICE: As MTGA executive director, Steve Olson (back to camera) was instrumental in helping drive growth of the Midwest Poultry Federation Convention — the largest trade show in the U.S. that is 100% focused on poultry. At conventions, he took his turn at donning an apron and helping in the make-your-own-omelet food line.Paula Mohr

The Minnesota Turkey Growers Association board of directors recently announced the departure of Steve Olson, executive director.

Since 2000, Olson has played a critical role in the development and success of the organization.

His departure was effective June 28.

“We will miss Steve and his inspiring leadership,” says Paul Kvistad, a Wood Lake turkey farmer and MTGA president. “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,” Olson says. “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 of Minnesota, Board of Animal Health and other farm organizations,” he says.

Source: MTGA, which is solely responsible for the information provided and is wholly owned by the source. Informa Business Media and all its subsidiaries are not responsible for any of the content contained in this information asset.

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