Living Our Practices Submissions: June 2022

Gary Dempsay (Nutrition)

How do you develop your knowledge and skills to do your job better?

One must not forget that learning/knowledge is a lifelong pursuit. There are so many ways to learn in today’s environment; webinars, podcasts, books, magazines, radio, television, DVD, YouTube, classes, etc. I personally find topics that I need to improve in my current job position or topics I want to learn more about due to foreseeable job changes. For example, I read some books about payroll and human resource management when I was taking on the Supervisory role of those areas. I continue that same concept as my career has changed over the years. I prefer reading books since I can refer back to those books at a later time and I feel the books provide a more in-depth learning opportunity versus a webinar. But no matter your personal preference since everyone learns differently, the important point is to never stop gaining knowledge.

Kimberley Fowler (Agribusiness)

The mentor program is a great opportunity for employees to develop within the company. I was selected as a mentee and had great discussions with my mentor. You only get out of the program what you put into it but it is a great opportunity for those looking to further grow and develop within the company.

Kimberley Fowler (Agribusiness)

Jack Ferri has encouraged and helped me grow as an employee over the past year. Jack has pushed me outside my comfort zone on projects and helped me foster networking opportunities throughout the company.

Heather Messer (Agribusiness)

I believe we have a couple of great examples of people development in the Inland Empire district of the PNW. Joel Mather (District Ops Manager) has developed clear guidelines and benchmarks for his operations team, so they have full transparency around their career path options. For example: Plant operator–>Field Service Tech I–>Field Service Tech 2/3–>Operations Lead, etc. In addition, he is transparent around value added activities at each location, and what employees can learn and add to their job duties to earn a higher wage – DOT/Fleet Coordination, EHSS Coordination, Applicator, Welding, etc.

Also, Joel and Tim Watts (District Sales Manager) work together on a sales person development track that starts inexperienced sales employees out on the operations side of the business, where they spend 18-24 months learning the business, crops, customers, and area before transitioning into a full sales role. This has proved invaluable not only for sales development, but for business development as well, solidifying the team atmosphere in the Inland Empire.

Jay Rajgor (Connell)

– What are some great examples of people development at Wilbur-Ellis? (A person, an opportunity, a training, etc.)
Being in Connell for over 3 years now though which is a short span to assess the overall people development, I see 2 of my colleagues whom I forsee as one of the best examples of people development at Connell specifically.
1. Dishank Gupta (who according to my knowledge joined as Financial Analyst in the regional team has grown to a role of Regional Director)
2. Smita Shetty (Who has grown tremendously in Connell initially leading the India F&N BU and now is Head of Core Products India along with leading Marketing department)

– How do you develop your knowledge and skills to do your job better?
According to me there are 3 main ways :
1. Seek a good mentor – Mentor can provide insights into specific professional situations and offer advice on how to develop our skills. Also, mentor will provide constructive criticism and feedback that can help us improve overall at our job. Mentor can be our Manager, colleague, etc.
2. Continuous learning – This can be structured learning like enrolling a training course or an unstructured learning which could be on the job learning or adhoc learning on the go via internet, peers, etc. This helps us to continuously polish our skills (i.e. Sharpening the saw regularly)
3. Set Goals – SMART goals with a beginning and end date. We all know SMART goals (specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and time-based) with these we can at least track our progress and assess if any course correction is required.

– When you think about being developed yourself, who has inspired you or been instrumental in your growth?
When I see myself over course of last 3 years, the main element I see is the wonderful work culture which gives us the freedom to Learn, Experiment, Execute, Assess, Correct and Repeat – i.e. the Feedback loop which I think is the part of this culture has been instrumental for me continuously being developed and gives us the inspiration to achieve more and more.

Becki Muhlbeier (Agribusiness)

https://vimeo.com/737696841

Vincent Avila (Agribusiness)

When I think about being developed myself, I think about how influential my manager, Lorianne Fought has been to me. I originally intended to become a Pest Control Advisor out of college, however I ended up down the road of Ag research and stayed with it since mainly due to having a great manager. Lorianne has helped my sharpen my knowledge, not only with production agriculture but normal skills in life we take for granted like communication, problem solving, etc. She is never too busy to teach my team or answer any question regardless if it pertains to the work we are doing.

Rob Ogden (Agribusiness)

People Development: Wilbur Ellis in my opinion is the leader of people development. There are so many resources, trainings, and people wanting to help develop our employee’s. Leadership is always looking for new ways and ideas to help develop our people and they follow up to know they are doing their best to help.

Develop your knowledge and skills to do your job better: I like to focus on learning, listen to others that have been there or have an opinion. Don’t re-invent the wheel but learn how to make it run consistently and accurate. Approach challenges with a desire to want to accomplish your goal and find creative ways to succeed. Take advice, listen to others, learn as much as you can always!

Who has inspired you or been instrumental in your growth: Who hasn’t 😉 This company has so many good people with so much wealth of knowledge and integrity. If we are gonna name drop, I would want to say thanks to: Robert Walker, Keith Knutson, Shawn Wetterau, Sam Engel, Amber Ross, Tracie Gogolin, Adam Balk and of course my Wife and four boys. Each of these folks has been a part in my career and have helped me develop with Wilbur Ellis Company.

Such a great company!
Thanks much.

Bill Parker (Nutrition)

Some great examples of people development at Wilbur-Ellis, in my opinion, would be the training that we are offered, the ability to seek training and have the support of the organization behind you to succeed. I have found that my current manager is as much a coach and teacher as a manager. He allows me to make decisions and work through problems, always being there to support me. He does not expect me to know everything and is willing to teach and talk me through issues I do not understand.
I work on developing my own skills by taking as much training that Wilbur-Ellis offers me. I also listen to leadership and management audiobooks to learn from different aspects of life, such as military, successful business people, and influential people from the past. I also spend time in the evenings watching youtube channels such as TED, SMARTER EVERYDAY, HISTORY UNDERGROUND.
When I think of being developed myself, the first and most influential person was my father. We spent our lives working together and we would talk about past experiences and how it can be applied in the future. He was a very successful person by managing risk while looking forward to be prepared for opportunity. As far as being developed in Wilbur-Ellis, the first person that was instrumental in my development was Brent Quinton. Brent saw me as a potential leader and moved me into a position to make a case to take over a leadership position. As we made this transition we had the support of Ron Salter. The next person that has been the most influential is Pedro Curry. Pedro has an excellent ability to let you reach deep within yourself and bring forward skills you didn’t know you had. He explains how you could have done a task differently if you struggled. And acknowledges a job well done. He encourages you to learn and take any training that will help you with your future. He will give you the opportunity to be involved in projects to sharpen your skills.

Faythe Anderson (Agribusiness)

I develop my knowledge and skill to do my job better by always trying to go the extra mile. In addition to this, I ask questions when needed to find the information I need to succeed.

Mallory Robert (Agribusiness)

In search of expanding my own knowledge base, I utilize the learning management system via Direct Access. Within that system, I am able to search for areas of interest and find specific courses that I need a refresher on. The data provided in the classes goes beyond our normal realm of needed information but thoroughly covers topics. Specifically, I have recently been searching for more information on hazmat documentation for both the tickets and packages and between LMS and CDMS, I am getting closer to having a better understanding of the subject area.

Smita Shetty (Connell)

What are some great examples of people development at Wilbur-Ellis? (A person, an opportunity, a training, etc.

I think the ACE training which we had in Connell was a great people development initiative.. It helped me look at my inner self with a 360 degree feedback which has helped me shape up my skills & character.

How do you develop your knowledge and skills to do your job better?
I constantly keep mapping my skill sets v/s the roles i aspire for. This helps me in selecting the learning modules for honing those skills. I recently got selected into a Design Thinking & Innovation course at Harvard Business School(Online) which helped me gain deep insights on leading innovation.

Melissa Weber (Nutrition)

https://vimeo.com/737686514

Michael Chappelle (Agribusiness)

What are some great examples of people development at Wilbur-Ellis? (A person, an opportunity, a training, etc.) – I have a warehouse lead who started as a CSR and is now being promoted to a Warehouse Manager. Here at our location we try to create the opportunity for growth and advancement for our employees.

How do you develop your knowledge and skills to do your job better? – I ask for help and instruction and do my best to get instruction with applications.

When you think about being developed yourself, who has inspired you or been instrumental in your growth? A past District Manager who took his time to teach me the importance of each individual under my leadership. Its my responsibility to grow and learn to better help those in my charge.

Kayce Tschetter (Agribusiness)

Developing myself has come with help from a lot of different people. Some who are gone and some who are still with us. I started here with no Ag background whatsoever and was given a chance with a new opportunity in the Wholesale side of the business. Starting low on the totem pole and watching the company grow over my time has definitely provided me an opportunity to move along with the company. I give credit to Matt Richmond who gave me my first chance with AgVerdict and technology to get to my current position. He trusted me enough to start me out with something I knew very little about, guided me and helped push me to more of a leadership role that I now have within our AgVerdict group. There have been a few others that are no longer with us that have pushed me to keep learning how to use new and more advanced tools so I can be more of an asset to the customer and to the team. They have taught me how to use tools they were experts with that I decided I could help utilize as well. Of course many members along the way through other positions I’ve had have also contributed to my current knowledge of not only the Ag world, but the technology and Wilbur world.

Ryan Garren (Agribusiness)

1) Dr. Benford’s online training classes.
2) I reach out to the key subject matter experts within WE.
3) Greg Griffin

Julie Magnuson (Nutrition)

Q: How do you develop your knowledge and skills to do your job better?
A: The simple answer….ask questions. If there is one thing I have learned during my 10+ years with regards to development is that as an individual it is important to ask questions. Everyone at Wilbur Ellis has always been very helpful when I’ve reached out while learning something new. It is important to be your own advocate when it comes to learning and growth. Express to others what you need, be specific and know that it is okay that you do not know it all right away. In my experience of being a part of the Business Services team, the learning and subsequent development are ongoing. Being the team who transacts the business involves interaction with a wide audience including internal and external customers, vendors and multiple departments as well as people across all career levels from administrative support to middle and upper management. Be your authentic self, ask questions, seek to understand, and take initiative.

NANCY REYES (Agribusiness)

I would like to recognize two teammates that have developed greatly in recent years. Not only have these individuals developed into standout leaders for the Shafter Ca, application team, but they have also developed personally in careers outside of Wilbur Ellis.
These individuals are, my brother-in-law, Miguel Gaspar and Garet Beach.
Miguel has been part of my family since 2015, when he married my sister. He became part of Wilbur-Ellis family in 2018. In just a very short time, Miguel has accomplished many things in life. He got his GED, became a US citizen and joined the Army National Guard in 2019, and has just reenlisted for an additional 6 years. Miguel is the first in our family to join the U.S. Military, and he has made us all very proud.

I met Garet when I came to Wilbur Ellis is 2011, him being just a kid, and I have seen him grow into a smart, respectful young man. Garet has been with Wilbur Ellis for over four years, when he would work seasonal. Garet joined the Air Force Reserve in 2021, with an additional 4 years remaining on his enlistment. Garet has shown great growth and maturity both personally and professionally. There is no doubt that Garet will accomplish great things in life.

Coincidentally, both Miguel and Garet have successful military careers around aviation mechanics. The skills gained in this field will easily transfer over to diesel mechanic skills that are very valuable around application, and application machinery. Here at the Shafter Ca, location, we are very proud of these teammates, and look forward to watching them grow at Wilbur Ellis, and in their military careers. We admire these guys, and appreciate them for being willing to give their time to defend our communities and our country. Moreover, it is inspiring to know we all work for a company that is supportive both in our Wilbur Ellis careers, and our outside of work dreams.
It is inspirational to see young men accomplish their dreams with hard work and support of their families and their employer. Thank you Wilbur Ellis for making this possible.

Mike Jorden (Agribusiness)

How do you develop your knowledge and skills to do your job better?

The main answer is “listen.” I listen and ask questions of my co-workers and direct reports to better understand their experiences and ideas and take the best ones and try to implement them in my work plans.

I value site visits. As one who works at a desk most days, it is very valuable to visit site offices to better understand work practices so I can incorporate working styles into our software.

On the more skill centric part of my work, I like to read books on better Program Management/Agile processes. I also like to listen to Pod-Casts and web videos on the subjects.

Carrie Williams (Corporate)

How do you develop your knowledge and skills to do your job better?

One method I use to develop knowledge and hone my skills is to use available resources available via the internet. I make time to read blogs and follow social media industry experts to stay current on the latest trends. By reading regular posts, I not only gain additional knowledge but also build relationships by commenting and reacting to posts. I also make time daily to review posts on Yammer to learn more about what is happening in all divisions and business resource groups.

Sharlyn Renner (Agribusiness)

1. I think all the training tools Wilbur has and offers, including the emails of anything new we can learn about has helped. We have employees that want to empower each other to be better because that is how we grow as a Company.
2. This year we listed goals that we wanted to achieve and for me it’s ALL ABOUT THE SALESMAN. I work mostly with the Salesman so I need to educate myself on things that matter to them. Products……what products to use and when to use them. So all the tidbits I get on Wilbur products is very beneficial to me.
3. James Williams – he has taught me so much about all things related to the Salesman and their needs to be able to do their jobs more efficiently. Including Programs, reports, weather, whatever the case may be.

Jeff Hershberger (Agribusiness)

Inspirational People:

Jim Loar – Accentuated the positive, faced the negative and lead by example. Don’t get caught in analysis paralysis. Embrace change, the opportunity it brings … and the mistakes that come with it.

Gary Saxton – Critical Thinking – Just because we have always done it that way, does it mean it is the best way? Is the new idea really better? Think before you jump.

Bob Redwine – Customer First – Had a strong relationship with his customers which enabled the business. Whatever is done, remember why WE are here.

These are only three of a long list of people who have moved on or retired during my 23 years with Wilbur-Ellis. I try to glean how these people accentuate the IDEAS values, incorporate them into my values and pass them on to others.

Jonathan Santana (Agribusiness)

A good example of people development that I’ve been a part of is having safety meeting at our branch because it brings all the employees in together to expand our safety awareness and at the same time we talk about other work related topics that need to be brought up. It’s a good communications and relationship development activity. I personally developed my knowledge and skills with repetition practice and asking questions. As the newer hire I like picking at the brains of the old timers here to learn a thing or two. Someone that inspires me to grow and develop my skills is my brother. He pushes me to be better and keep moving forward.

Fayley Meade (Nutrition)

2. How do you develop your knowledge and skills to do your job better?
I am a huge fan of educational podcasts, I subscribe to a few HR podcasts which help keep me up to date on industry changes and challenges in my profession. I also subscribe to the HR Brew newsletter which is Bi-Weekly. I regularly attend webinars through SHRM to gain education credits that I use towards my recertification. Around my yearly performance review I also try to discuss development opportunities with my manager for the following year so there is a plan in place. I feel while you can develop in your career through passive experiences, gaining knowledge through outside sources and actively asking for opportunities or even presenting ideas for growth opportunities to you manager is another tool you have to grow.
3. When you think about being developed yourself, who has inspired you or been instrumental in your growth? My manager has been instrumental in my growth. She has given me the training and provided the learning opportunities to grow my professional experience. Good managers truly make all the difference so I am happy to see the company provide so many development opportunities for our people leaders.

Tyler Bruck (Agribusiness)

-People development- Next Gen is a great program within Wilbur-Ellis to help the younger generation coming in get their feet under them quicker and build relationships with people from outside of their area. A really good example is of a gentleman who started out as a temp in high school in the fert plant, then full time in the fert plant, then after that to a CSR, and then to a full time Sales Agronomist!
-The newer online agronomy trainings have been very helpful. Our local monthly team meetings have trainings. I also go to industry meetings to stay up to date on what is new outside of Wilbur.
-I would say that everyone I have worked around in different areas of my life have been instrumental in some way. They have either taught me important “nuggets” to always remember, or how I don’t want to act or treat people.

Michael Doerr (Agribusiness)

Nate Squires is a perfect example of a supportive leader that has fully embraced People Development as core to the way he conducts his business. Nate is a Horticulture Specialist in the Cascades Tree Fruit District. Nate consistently puts people first, ALWAYS! He gets up everyday to make sure our staff that are new in their careers are well trained, confident in how they do their job, and he takes the extra step to get them in-front of important customers and internal leadership groups. Nate has the ability to show our staff a clear path to a successful career, and does so through careful and thoughtful guidance. I was excited to come to Wilbur Ellis inpart because of the opportunity to work with Nate!

Daniel Groves (Agribusiness)

3. When you think about being developed yourself, who has inspired you or been instrumental in your growth?

My Dad- He worked at Wilbur-Ellis for 30 years in the Grand Forks office. I was able to work with him in sales for his last 5 years. He guided me through difficult customers, changing environments and ultimately taught me to always put the customers’ needs first.

Lara Shuler (Agribusiness)

Our leadership team has been instrumental to my growth. Those individuals that took the time to train, check-in, and answered questions as they arose have been imperative to my growth. The opportunities we have for growth are important too, such as the Learning & Development workshops/videos/podcasts and BRGs like Women of Wilbur-Ellis. They help make personal development easier.

John Hoyle (Agribusiness)

How do you develop your knowledge and skills to do your job better?

There is no replacement for education to keep yourself refreshed on what you already know, need to know better, and what the future may hold in your line of work. It is very important for me to find training opportunities internally and externally to help me the best I can be in sales/agronomy in the field. Getting your CCA (Certified Crop Advisor) license is a great way to hold yourself accountable to get training hours each year to maintain your license. We try to get locally continuing education hours for our in house trainings, and most suppliers and extension service trainings offer them as well. Even if you do not have your CCA, seeking out training opportunities is key in my opinion to help you be the best you can be in your role. I had a mentor early in my career out of college that did this and once you do it make it part of your role then it sticks with you forever. Education does not end once you are done with school.

Brandon Wilhelm (Agribusiness)

Our team has found that collaborating on a bi- monthly basis via TEAMS allows us to get a better idea of what is happening throughout our entire region. Everyone has a slightly different customer base and we use this time to talk about what’s working, what’s not, focus products, wins, and areas of improvement. More times than not we are learning about a new product, sales strategy or product placement within a very informal setting. This has gone a long way with the team and even more so with a couple of newer hires.

I have a thirst for learning so I actively seek opportunities to learn about new products, application methods and sales tactics through various social/media outlets. Twitter and instagram have provided tremendous reach to industry leading professionals. The advanced agronomy training courses have also been a great source of information and education.

Jeff Schwab and Jason Otto have both been instrumental in my growth, development, and success thus far. Both have helped me develop, but it took me engaging with them to do so. Asking the right questions and constantly picking their brains has allowed me to grow with ease and confidence. Without their help and willingness to engage, I wouldn’t be where I am today.

Angelica Estrada (Agribusiness)

Question: When you think about being developed yourself, who has inspired you or been instrumental in your growth?
Answer: Mark Lam & Lara Shuler have been instrumental in my growth. They are constantly guiding me in new responsibilities and are always available when I have questions. They are very encouraging and acknowledge my accomplishments.