December 1, 2021

Professional Development That Checks All the Boxes

Jason Ertl has been involved in food production and the food system since he graduated from the University of Minnesota with a bachelor’s degree in animal science. Recognizing the value of ongoing training and education, Jason is now enrolled in the University of Minnesota’s Integrated Food Systems Leadership program (IFSL) and the Master of Professional Studies in Applied Sciences Leadership.

In his current position at Genesus, a swine genetics company, Jason drives sales and technical support for his region in Minnesota and the Upper Midwest. We talked with Jason to learn more about his IFSL experience and hear why he believes the IFSL program checks all the boxes for food system professionals looking to develop their skills and enhance their career..

What prompted you to apply to the IFSL program?

After talking with a colleague, I realized the IFSL program would be an excellent opportunity for me to develop key competencies. It reflected my interests in food production and leadership, and I appreciated the flexible, online schedule – which is vital for students working full time. As I considered my goals, the IFSL program was able to check all the boxes for someone like me – an agricultural professional who wanted to improve through personal and professional development.

How has the program changed the way you work?

The leadership and overall professional development component of the program curriculum has made me a more well-rounded employee. Whether I am contributing to a project or providing oversight for a project team, I’ve learned how to better understand my strengths and identify how to apply them most effectively.

I know I am better suited for future leadership roles as a result of my opportunities and experiences in the IFSL program.

Is there a project you worked on that caused you to expand your thinking?

I really enjoyed the “Adopt a Product” group project that I worked on with my cohort. My collegiate and professional experiences have been focused on the production side of the system. Now I have exposure to what happens after the products leave the farm and I have a clearer understanding of how interconnected the different stakeholders are.

I have a more thorough appreciation for supply chain challenges, food regulation and governance, and marketing that is done on behalf of the producers to create more sustainable demand for the goods being produced.

Do you have any advice for someone who may be considering the IFSL program?

I definitely recommend the program -- the unique combination of topics and instructors would be difficult to replicate in any other program.

Integrated Food Systems Leadership (IFSL) Program
Designed for professionals interested in accelerating their careers, the IFSL program is a unique, online, graduate certificate program that fosters leadership, collaboration, and innovation across the food system.

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. Schedule a consultation call for more information.