Cathy Bryan is a key figure at PIPESTONE, exemplifying the core value of teamwork through her 26 years of dedicated service as Lab Manager. Her role is crucial in ensuring precision and reliability in the lab’s operations, directly supporting the farmers that PIPESTONE serves.
A path to PIPESTONE
Cathy’s career began with a degree in Administrative Assistant and Veterinary Office Management from Minnesota West Community & Technical College in Pipestone. She started at a small animal clinic in Sioux Falls, gaining valuable hands-on experience. Drawn by the desire to work closer to home and the relationships she already had at PIPESTONE, Cathy joined the company in 1998. “I knew PIPESTONE would be the place to be and a good place to work,” Cathy recalls.
Cathy started in Accounts Receivable/Customer Service and quickly proved her versatility. Her background in veterinary work soon saw her assisting with small animal tasks and blood sample submissions during the pseudo-rabies outbreak. “I began by helping out where needed, and gradually, my role expanded,” Cathy recalls. Her ability to multitask and adapt made her an invaluable asset, leading to her current role as Lab Manager.
The Essence of Teamwork
Cathy’s approach to her work is rooted in the principle of teamwork, a quality that has earned her recognition as the Core Value recipient for teamwork at PIPESTONE. “In emergencies, maintaining strong relationships with South Dakota State University, Iowa State University, and our internal team is crucial,” she explains. Her ability to communicate effectively ensures that samples are processed swiftly, and results are delivered promptly, a critical aspect for the farmers.
“I’m not one to say, ‘that’s not my job’,” Cathy emphasizes. Whether it’s picking up samples on weekends or covering for an absent colleague, she is always ready to step in and help. This proactive mindset ensures that the lab operates smoothly, even under pressure.
Supporting Farmers on the Front Line
Cathy’s work directly impacts the health and productivity of sow farms managed by PIPESTONE and independently owned farms alike. She oversees routine testing, ensuring that each farm meets its monthly requirements. In times of health crises, Cathy prioritizes rapid processing of samples so veterinarians can quickly determine the next steps.
Her commitment to early morning communication ensures that farmers receive timely updates, allowing them to make informed decisions.
A Lifelong Commitment to Agriculture
Living in Jasper with her husband Danny, Cathy’s life revolves around farming. Her family crop farms and raises stock cows. Despite not growing up on a farm, Cathy’s extensive time spent on her relatives’ farms and her college work with cattle provided her with a solid foundation in agriculture. “I love the challenge of working for PIPESTONE,” Cathy admits. “Every day is different, and I thrive on balancing routine tasks with new challenges.” Cathy and Danny have two children: Megan, who is married to Jesse, and Cory, who is married to Nadalie. They also have a grandson named Dutton. Their family includes two dogs, Remi and Ripp.
Outside of work, Cathy enjoys spending time at their camping spot on the lake, where they love camping with family and friends, kayaking, and pontooning. In the winter, Cathy indulges her love for snowmobiling, stating with a grin, “I love snow.”
Recognized and Valued
Cathy’s dedication has not gone unnoticed. Dr. Natalee Judson praises her saying, “Cathy’s contributions to PIPESTONE are exceptional. Her seamless collaboration with various teams and proactive problem-solving skills are invaluable.”
Indeed, Cathy Bryan’s role at PIPESTONE is a testament to the power of teamwork. Her dedication, adaptability, and proactive approach not only enhance the lab’s efficiency but also ensure that farmers receive the best possible support. Cathy embodies the true spirit of teamwork.