Growers Selected for NAWG Leadership Program

The National Association of Wheat Growers (NAWG) recently announced the 2005 class of the Wheat Industry Leaders of Tomorrow (WILOT). The 10 participants include Jay Elkin from Taylor, N.D.; Aron Torgerson, Ethridge, Mont.; and Michael Martin, Forbes, N.D.

WILOT is designed for wheat growers who are interested in becoming involved at the state level on committees and boards, but who have not yet been elected to statewide office or served on the NAWG Board of Directors. The program is a project of the NAWG Foundation and sponsored by Monsanto.

This program provides exposure to national activities and issues, leadership training, and an opportunity to visit with Monsanto company decision-makers about agricultural issues. Graduates of the WILOT program have put their skills to use in state and national policy issues, many of them becoming board members and/or officers in state wheat associations or in NAWG. 

The wheat industry has an ongoing need for informed and capable leaders, and WILOT is an important tool in meeting that need.

NAWG was founded in 1950 to provide one strong voice for wheat growers nationwide.  Partnering with 21 state associations in wheat growing states, NAWG represents wheat grower interests in the nation’s capitol, where it delivers its message on farm policy, foreign trade policy and environmental issues.  NAWG also works with agri business to promote research and development of promising new technologies to benefit wheat producers and consumers. And, in conjunction with the State Wheat Associations, the NAWG Foundation offers educational programs that provide growers with the techniques and skills needed to compete in today’s global marketplace.