Meet Bruce Vester. Bruce has been with ABM since 2011 and provides a wealth of knowledge for his customers and team members, alike. We were lucky enough to squeeze in some time with Bruce amongst his busy schedule, so that you could learn more about him.
What is your role at ABM?
National Seed Accounts/Regional Sales Manager
What geographical areas do you cover?
Illinois (East of US 51), Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, and Michigan
What is your education/business background?
I graduated from Purdue University with a bachelor’s degree in Agriculture and a minor in Agronomy. After graduation, I had the opportunity to work for a large regional seed company as a District Sales Manager, as well as a Sales and Marketing Manager.
How did you get into this line of work?
When I was a junior in high school, many of my friends had an agricultural background. I grew up in the country, but lacked farm experience. However, my interest to know more and learn more about the ag industry was there, so I decided to pursue an education in Agronomy. I had a distinct passion to learn more about soil, diagnosing problems in the field, and evaluating crops, soil, etc. As I continued in my studies and into my career, the desire to blend and service all aspects of the ag industry grew. At this point in my career, I spend less time with farmers, but often still receive phone calls from them with questions. I greatly enjoy taking the time to explain and educate them on ABM’s products and how they can best achieve their highest yield.
Who is someone that has been a mentor and/or influence on your life?
I am fortunate to have been influenced by several people over the years.
- Phil Taylor, a close family friend who worked in seed sales
- Lee Rulon from my previous employer, Becks Hybrids
- Bob Nielsen & Lee Schwietzer from Purdue University
What are you most passionate about within your job?
It’s exciting to take my interests and degree and apply it to agriculture.
I’m passionate about education in the ag industry. I love motivating, educating and informing. What intrigues me the most about ABM’s biological products is that our products are bringing a new era of technology to farmers. Just in the last 5 years, new advances in the uses of biological technology are bringing a new level of productivity and profitability to farmers.
What are you passionate about, outside of work?
Quality time with family. We have property in Madison, IN with 46 acres of woods with a large pond. I enjoy hunting, fishing and other outdoor activities.
How has ABM helped you in your career development?
ABM has educated me on microbials and how they work with plants. This makes me a better educator for our wholesale, retail and farmer customers.
What are 3 words to describe ABM?
- Innovative
- Technical
- Discovery
What do you like most about ABM / what is the favorite part about working at ABM?
At ABM, we are given the freedom to do what is necessary to best serve our customers. Our executive team listens to the needs of the staff, responds and finds solutions that work – and sometimes step outside of the norm, when necessary.
To learn more about Bruce and his role at ABM, please click here.