Industry Profiles

Getting folks to ‘fuel up’ with potatoes is aim of Potatoes USA’s Dritlein
The potato industry has made a big push to get more potatoes in the school breakfast and lunch programs in recent years. Rachael Dritlein of Potatoes ... more »

LaJoie family creates opportunities predecessors didn’t have through support system
Normand LaJoie was thrust into manhood at age 17 when his father, Gilbert, died suddenly in 1955. Normand and his mother, Marthe, were left to run the... more »

Mark Szymanski sending the right message for National Potato Council
Mark Szymanski probably oversimplified his job as “easy,” adding that he’s only responsible for telling the world about the efforts of his fello... more »

Spudman announces honorees of first potato industry Dream Team
There are many roles within the potato industry. Grower. Packer. Truck driver. Researcher. Crop protection specialist. Salesperson. Just like with ... more »

‘All Spuds’: Alsum Farms has quadrupled potato production the past 30 years
Alsum Farms & Produce has been referred to “All Spuds” because of the size of its potato production. It is true, when it comes to farming, the... more »

Potatoes USA chef RJ Harvey showcasing potatoes in exciting new ways
If the Food Network ever devotes a show solely to potatoes, RJ Harvey would be the perfect host. Harvey’s job as director of culinary for Potatoe... more »

The Caribou Crew: Irving Farms gaining notoriety for up-and-coming variety
The Irving family has been growing potatoes in Aroostook County, Maine, since the early part of the 19th century. The Irvings are well-known for thei... more »

Overcoming negative reputation of dried potatoes biggest goal for Idahoan exec Ellis
The practice of dehydrating potatoes for later consumption started during World War II as a way to give soldiers in the field a more stable means of f... more »

Kelly Turner, new head of Michigan potato commission, already has a mindset for farming
Among the ranks of state association leaders in the potato industry, Kelly Turner is still something of the new kid in class. She’s hardly new to ag... more »

Spudman’s Spudwomen series of articles finalist for Folio award
Spudman and its sister publications are celebrating today after several of the magazines were honored. Great American Media Services’ Agriculture... more »