Biography
With a farming career of 25 years, Ryan Storm owns a wean-to-finish operation with 1,200 nursery and 2,400 finishing spaces. Additionally, he grows 1,200 acres of corn and soybeans and operates a 60-head cow/calf operation. He is a past participant of the Pork Leadership Academy, a predecessor of the Pork Leadership Institute. Storm has been heavily involved with the South Dakota Pork Producers Council for 14 years, with a two-year presidential term.
Finally, he has been the president of the county pork producer’s organization (20 years) and has volunteered on the local township board (8 years). His notable awards in his home state include Master Pork Producer (2012) and Family of the Year (2022).
Nominating Committee Comments
National Pork Board and Industry Knowledge
Storm quickly pointed out that the National Pork Board is responsible for research, education and promotion, and he mentioned domestic and international market development in his top challenges response, alluding to an understanding of the purpose and function of NPB.
Leadership, Communication, Attitude and Passion
Storm has the respect and backing of peers in his state as a problem solver who will process action steps for impending decisions. His calm and concise demeanor aims to put ideas on the table, establish specific goals, identify pressing issues and create consensus. He understands simplistic communication is key and will genuinely put himself second in his leadership style.
As an independent producer, he is very committed to the farmer’s image. He explained his meticulous steps to keep barns and surrounding areas clean and trimmed, along with approaching neighbors with a small gift when telling them he would soon be hauling manure, thus knowing the value of being a good community citizen.