Congratulations are in order for Jim Olson as he was recognized as one of 2014’s South Dakota Master Pork Award recipients.  He was recognized at the South Dakota Pork Producers Banquet held in conjunction with the South Dakota Pork Congress on January 14^th in Sioux Falls.  After sorting through numerous nominations, on farm visits and interviews, the Master Pork Producers selection committee narrowed it down to three well deserving winners of the award this year.

Jim Olson began his career with the Pipestone Management in 1998 as the site manager at Buffalo Run near Waseca, MN.  After managing Buffalo Run for over 12 years, Jim was ready for a new challenge and moved to Willow Lake, SD to manage Alliance.  As Pipestone Management has grown throughout the years, Jim played an integral role in developing production protocols that helped other barn managers succeed.

When asked what Jim would say to those just starting their career at Pipestone Jim stated, “I have been given many opportunities to develop my skills as a leader and as a farm manager through leadership oriented seminars and production meetings with other managers throughout the system. I tell all the new employees that positions are opening up on a weekly basis. Advancement opportunities are there if they are willing to apply themselves and do what it takes to achieve the goal.”

Pipestone Management is honored to have employees like Jim Olson that are so dedicated to the swine industry!  Congratulations to Jim and the other recipients on your success!