EAGLE, Idaho – The Idaho Potato Commission (IPC) is pleased to announce that Travis Blacker has accepted the position of Industry Relations Director. Blacker will work out of the IPC’s Eastern Idaho office and will focus on building and developing relationships between the IPC and all industry members: growers, shippers and processors.
The Industry Relations Director position was established five years ago to help improve and increase communication within the industry, a priority for the IPC. Having a presence in Eastern Idaho has enabled the IPC to more easily share updates on its marketing programs, demonstrate how taxes are being used, and most importantly, listen and respond to industry issues and concerns including those regarding sustainability, Good Agricultural Programs (GAP), etc.
“Travis’ most recent role as president of the Idaho Grower Shippers Association (IGSA) makes him an exceptional candidate for this position. The leadership Travis has provided to the industry and his day-to-day experience working directly with growers and shippers will prove invaluable in increasing and improving industry communication,” explained Frank Muir, President/CEO, IPC. “As an Idahoan, Travis understands how important potatoes are to the Idaho economy and the importance and power of a well-informed and unified industry. I personally am looking forward to working with Travis and am confident he will be an excellent addition to our team.”
In addition to serving as the IPC’s Eastern Idaho representative, Blacker will oversee three committees that focus on different aspects of the Idaho® potato industry.
• The Agriculture Affairs Committee focuses on environmental, legislative and regulatory and immigration and labor issues. Farming practices are also reviewed and discussed.
• The Marketing Committee provides input on the overall marketing of fresh and processed potato products that are sold domestically and internationally. The committee also provides guidance on the GAP program.
• The Research and Education Committee provides support for Potato Variety Management Institute (PVMI), input on basic research funding and the expanse of organic and specialty variety potatoes.
These committees not only provide a forum for discussion and idea exchange, they offer a unique venue for developing leadership within the industry.
With more than 19 years experience in the Idaho® potato industry, Blacker is eager to apply his knowledge and expertise to his new position at the IPC. “I’m very much looking forward to this opportunity to work for such a forward-thinking and dynamic organization,” said Blacker. “My predecessor has done a tremendous job in creating and expanding communication channels between the IPC and Idaho® potato industry and I’m looking forward to taking it to the next level.”
Prior to his role at IGSA, Blacker served as the Supply Chain Manager at Dickinson’s Frozen Foods and was the Customer Service Manager at NorSun Food Group.
Travis and his wife Dana have been married 18 years and have three children. In their free time they like to golf, ride motorcycles and travel.
About the Idaho Potato Commission
Established in 1937, the Idaho Potato Commission (IPC) is a state agency that is responsible for promoting and protecting the famous “Grown in Idaho®” seal, a federally registered trademark that assures consumers they are purchasing genuine, top-quality Idaho® potatoes. Idaho's ideal growing conditions, including rich, volcanic soil, climate and irrigation, differentiate Idaho® potatoes from potatoes grown in other states.
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Source: Idaho Potato Commission
