Luke Zimmerman, Renewable Scholar

​Hello, this is Luke Zimmerman with an overview of an interview I had with Nic Anderson, a Livestock Business Developer with the Illinois Livestock Development Group.  When looking for someone to interview for the GFAI Scholarship, I chose Nic for two reasons; his passion for the livestock industry and his down-to-earth, genuine character.  Nic’s interest in agriculture began early in his life.  Growing up, he was heavily involved in 4-H, and enjoyed raising poultry on his family’s farm.  After graduating high school, he attended Western Illinois University where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Animal Science.  Out of college, he took a job with a hog buyer where he learned a lot about grading carcasses and marketing pork.  Later in his career, he worked for Premier Pork Systems, a genetic company.  This position was critical in developing the understanding he has today of the industry’s genetic improvement systems.  At Premier Pork, Nic was also introduced to sales which he feels has been a tremendous help to him in his current position. Today, Nic holds the position of Livestock Business Developer with the Illinois Livestock Development Group (formerly the Illinois Animal Coalition).  In his current role, he works to support and develop all species of livestock production throughout Illinois.  Nic’s job consists of supporting livestock producers through the building process.  Often this involves helping them work through any opposition they might face during the permitting and building process.  Nic’s favorite part of his job is meeting and working with some of the best family farms in the state.  He genuinely enjoys sharing his perspective and experience with these families and helping them in any way he can.  To the next generation of agriculturists, Nic says, “The more experience you can get the better.  Take the time to broaden your perspective and learn everything you can about a variety of topics in the industry.”  Overall, when it comes to livestock development in Illinois, Nic is a wealth of knowledge and provides an exceptional contribution to our industry.  I am honored that he took to time to complete this interview for the GFAI scholarship and I truly learned a lot through the time I spent with him.  I am also very grateful to the GFAI and the feed and grain industry for the many opportunities that have been provided to me.  As I finish up my degree and take my place in the industry, I look forward to when I can give back to the very industry that has been such an inspiration to me.
Kind Regards,
Luke