In fact, I’d say the dairy industry leads the way in many aspects of using measurement tools to make decisions. However, there is one area where we can learn from other industries: tracking our own learning and development.

Strategic thinking anticipates future challenges, prepares to jump on unforeseen opportunities and aligns the farm’s goals. When done well, the farm becomes agile, adaptable while still staying focused on the basics.

In order to stay abreast – or surpass – your competition, you need to effectively manage data to continue to make the most of your resources.

In this episode of the Progressive Dairy Podcast, host Kimmi Devaney visits with Kansas dairy producer Lee Holtmeier from Linn Willow Creek Dairy about their employee culture, what they do to mentor and empower employees, and how they keep employee turnover low. 

Here is an unarguable fact: A high-functioning and effective farm team – with all team members in alignment and focused on achieving established farm goals – has a distinct competitive advantage over a farm that operates without a team.

From elementary and middle school to high school, college and beyond, the Dairy Excellence Foundation offers curriculum, interactive dairy education programs, scholarships and internships to students of all ages – all available at no cost thanks to our donors and partners.