Trent Thiele has never been one to shy away from a challenge. He joined a team of partners to run a crop and livestock farm in Howard County. He became involved with local and state pork producer groups.

Now, the Howard County Farm Bureau member will be leading the state’s pork association.

Thiele grew up on a dairy farm. They expanded into raising pigs; breeding, farrowing and finishing out market hogs.

 The family eventually exited both the dairy and pig industries.

Opportunity presents itself

Thiele was working at a local co-op when a farmer called him.

“A local...