Alan Westra
Idaho Crop Improvement Association, Inc.
I currently serve as the SE Area Manager for the Idaho Crop Improvement Association, Inc. and am responsible for the management of seed potato certification for the State of Idaho. I have been in this position for twelve years, have over thirty years of experience in plant pathology and seed certification, and hold an M.S. in plant pathology from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. My career has been dedicated to helping to ensure a supply of high-quality seed for the agriculture industry and to advancing seed certification through the application of sound science.
Over the course of my career, I have developed a suite of skills critical to effective board service:
- Planning: Both short- and long-term planning to conduct certification activities and implement advancements.
- Communication: Delivering presentations at conferences, facilitating grower meetings, and translating science into practice for stakeholders.
- Collaboration & Networking: Working with researchers, grower organizations, and industry.
- Adaptability: Navigating complex regulatory and industry issues in order to maintain a program and services that are relevant to stakeholder needs.
- Balance: Using a balanced approach that combines data-driven decision-making with a deep understanding of stakeholder needs.
As a Director, I hope to leverage my leadership experience, interdisciplinary experience, and commitment to collaboration to ensure that the Potato Association of America remains the dynamic and responsive organization that it is.
Thank you for considering my nomination. I would be honored to contribute to the continued success of the Potato Association of America in this capacity.
