Michaela Spring Sales and Mareting Manager, Northwest U.S. Nampa, IdahoImmuCell
What are your new responsibilities?My new responsibilities include further establishing relationships with a vast network of animal health experts and producers. I will be covering 12 states in the Western territory and will be working to expand calf health and profit potential with animal health distributors, veterinarians, calf raisers, dairy producers and cow-calf operations.
Please describe your agricultural background.
Moving to Iowa when I was younger is really what sparked my interest in agriculture. I had always been fascinated with animals and knew I wanted to be part of this important business. I started my education to become an animal scientist at Iowa State University in 2007, and there I became involved in undergraduate research with a focus on dairy calves.
What education are you bringing with you to this position?
I have a bachelor’s degree in animal science and a master’s in animal physiology from Iowa State University.
What previous positions have you held?
Graduate Research Assistant, Intern for Cornell Cooperative Extension.
What excites you most about working in your new role?
I am most excited about getting back onto farms and interacting with leading industry producers and representatives. Being able to play a role in improving animal health in order to feed a rapidly expanding population is one of my passions, and I am eager to contribute to this profession. This role also allows me to use my knowledge of calf physiology and directly relates to my research education.
How will you be of most help to producers in your region or area of expertise?
The first hours of life in a newborn calf, dairy or beef, are so important to the lifetime health and profitability of the animal. First Defense helps ensure that calves are getting the right start early in life, and subsequently that will create more profit and peace of mind for the producer who uses it.
Why did you choose this company?
I chose ImmuCell because of its leading reputation in calf health. Our products are scientifically-proven and result in enhanced economic impact on animal health and productivity. First Defense provides immediate protection when calves need it most and can be used in conjunction with good colostrum feeding and nutrition plans. It is very important to me that producers are investing in products that actually work; with First Defense I can feel good about my contribution to that farm knowing that those calves are protected.
What goals would you like to accomplish while in this position?
I hope to have a positive impact on newborn calf management and educate producers on the importance of starting their calves out the best way they can. A healthy calf grows into a healthy cow that produces more milk and requires less intervention down the road. PD
