Potatoes USA, the marketing and promotion Board for the potato industry, elected new leadership during its Annual Meeting on March 15, 2023. Mike Carter of Rosholt, Wisconsin, was named Chairman of the Board, leading the organization and the Executive Committee through 2023-2024.
Back row (left to right) Trever Belnap of Hamen, Idaho, Jeff Jennings of Camden, North Carolina, Mike Larsen of Declo, Idaho, Les Alderete of Monte Vista, Colorado, Dennis Wright of Kennewick, Washington. Front row (left to right) Jason Davenport of Bakersfield, California, Shelley Olsen of Othello, Washington, Mike Carter of Rosholt, Wisconsin, Blair Richardson, Potatoes USA’s CEO. Not pictured: Jennifer Gogan of Houlton, Maine, Leah Halverson of Grand Forks, North Dakota, and Ed Staunton of Tulelake, California.
Carter, a 25-year veteran in the potato industry and CEO and Co-Owner of Bushmans’ Inc., has contributed his expertise to the Board for a decade. Throughout his tenure, Carter has been a member of the Executive Committee for six years, taking on Co-Chair responsibilities for the International Marketing, Domestic Marketing, and Industry Outreach Committees.
Expressing appreciation for being elected as Chairman, Carter considers it to be a significant honor. While there’s a lot he looks forward to in the upcoming year, he is enthusiastic about developing a long-term strategy that will establish the direction and framework for the industry’s future amidst a rapidly changing global landscape.
He also commends Potatoes USA’s proactive approach to defending potatoes’ reputation and is eager to engage in discussions with the international potato community. One such opportunity is an upcoming visit to Poland, where he will connect with fellow growers to promote the advantages of potatoes on a global scale.
Carter’s unique background, including his past role as a state manager for a potato organization, equips him with a broad perspective and understanding of the industry. As he assumes responsibilities, he aims to continue fostering collaboration and teamwork within the industry.
“I don’t think there’s anything that we as an industry can’t accomplish when we work together. It will be critical that we maintain this philosophy,” Carter says when discussing the industry’s strength.
Apart from his contributions to Potatoes USA, Mike Carter serves on the Board of Directors for the Wisconsin State Potato Growers Association and actively participates in his church community. Outside of his work, Carter has a passion for curling and has jokingly earned a reputation as a “potato curling ambassador,” as he often finds himself in conversations spreading awareness about this fascinating activity.
For more information:
POTATOES USA
3675 Wynkoop Street, Denver, Co 80216
Tel.: +1 (303) 369-7783
Media@PotatoesUSA.com