Few wheat farmers are given an opportunity to shape the future of their industry by engaging in research, marketing and promotion efforts. The Kansas Wheat Commission, however, has an opportunity for wheat farmers to do just that.

The Kansas Wheat Commission seeks a wheat farmer to fill two At-Large Positions. These positions - which can be filled by any active wheat producer in the state - become open on March 19. They are currently filled by Richard Randall, Scott City and Doug Keesling, Chase.

Newly-selected commissioners will take officially join the Commission in April and serve a three-year term. Members of the Kansas Wheat Commission set budget priorities, establish policies and procedures that determine research, education and nutrition priorities - plus learn leadership skills and gain valuable insight into the entire wheat industry. Kansas Wheat Commissioners must be engaged in wheat production. 

Justin Gilpin, chief executive officer of the Kansas Wheat Commission, says becoming a Kansas Wheat Commissioner is an excellent way for farmers to become actively involved in their industry.

"Commodity commissioners manage research, promotion and education programs funded by the checkoff for each commodity," Gilpin said. "Participating in the Commission election as a prospective commissioner or voter is an essential way to give input into Kansas Agriculture."

Kansas Wheat Commissioners must be willing to travel in- and out-of-state, although travel is limited to a few overnight stays per year. Interested Commissioners may participate in international travel to promote Kansas wheat worldwide. The position is not paid, but Commissioners have all travel expenses reimbursed.

If you are interested in becoming a Kansas Wheat Commissioner, please send a personal resume, plus letter of interest with brief biography, to jgilpin@kswheat.com by March 19, 2013. Applications will be sorted and selected applicants will be asked to participate in a telephone interview. A decision will be made in April; successful applicants will participate in the first Kansas Wheat Commission meeting after that time.

Learn more about the Kansas Wheat Commission by logging onto www.kansaswheat.org.