USGC Recognizes Collin Watters For Five Years of Service

At the 59th Annual Board of Delegates Meeting in Cincinnati, the U.S. Grains Council (USGC) recognized Collin Watters for five years of service as the executive vice president of the Montana Wheat and Barley Committee.

Watters began his partnership with the Council when he started working with Montana barley growers. He recalled one of the most powerful experiences working with the Council was traveling to Mexico to meet directly with both Mexican buyers and government officials, which also included the Montana lieutenant governor and director of agriculture. Watters believes the Council’s work to connect national leaders, farmers, buyers and other agriculture professionals is invaluable.

“The program was great and, ultimately, the programs raised awareness for the state dignitaries,” Watters said. “They walked away with a clearer understanding of the value of these programs and learned quite a bit about the Mexican market.”

Watters said one of the Council’s biggest assets is being connected on a global level. He expressed an appreciation for the organization’s annual meetings, where members are able to spend time with staff – both domestic and international – and gain a deeper understanding of the Council’s work.

“One of the most important things about the Council is the level of engagement it has with export partners and the durability of those relationships,” Watters said. “The Council has incredible staff all over the world who develop meaningful relationships for export partners.”

Watters recently assumed a new role as the director of exports and logistics with the Illinois Corn and Marketing Board. He anticipates his involvement with the Council will be even greater with his new position.

“The more I was able to get to know the Council’s staff and programs, I became further engaged,” Watters said. “Through deeper engagement I will be able to find even further value.”