Not your typical farm kid: NIC MCCARTHY: FFA STUDENT TO SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT AT AG COOPERATIVE
Senior Vice President of Agronomy Nic McCarthy’s journey into the agricultural industry isn’t your typical “farm kid” story. Nic grew up in Wisner, Neb. But it wasn’t on a farm like many of his friends in the area did. His parents worked in construction and health.
His interest in agriculture first began by joining the Wisner-Pilger FFA chapter led by Mr. Mark Schroeder in the 1990s.
His FFA Chapter
During Nic’s time with his high school FFA chapter, he was able to grow and thrive by trying out new competitions. “I really enjoyed learning about agriculture through FFA contests,” said Nic. “Land and meat judging were my favorite to participate in.”
FFA not only provided him countless opportunities in the classroom, but outside the classroom in real-world examples as well. “Our FFA labor auction was the gateway to my hands-on experience on a farm,” said Nic. “3B farms ‘bought’ me and it led to a part-time employment for four years on their farm and livestock operation.”
The Bloedorn’s took me in like family and gave me the opportunity to experience driving a tractor, planting, and harvesting crops and birthing, feeding, and treating livestock to name just a few roles. It was truly a great experience and something I will never forget.
Upon graduating from Wisner-Pilger High School in 1995, Nic pursued an associate degree of applied science in agronomy at Northeast Community College in Norfolk, Neb. His coursework and specifically a college internship is where Nic’s first introduction into the agronomy world began. Nic interned with Northeast Cooperative in Wisner.
“Summers at the cooperative were fun. We worked hard, but we had a lot of fun with each other,” said Nic. “The hands-on experience is what got me interested in an Ag career. From learning how to calculate a fertilizer blend to running a machine, there was never a dull moment.”
After graduating from Northeast Community College, Nic joined Agland Cooperative in Oakland, Neb. In 2003, Agland became Central Valley Ag through a three-cooperative merger.
His career
Through Nic’s career at Central Valley Ag (CVA), he has experienced all aspects of the business, giving him great respect for CVA’s culture. Nic has served as an Applicator, Field Sales Agronomist, Location Manager, Regional Operation Manager and VP of Operations. Currently, Nic serves on the board for NorKan LLC, Ag Agronomy LLC, and is a member of the Farm, Ranch and Rural Communities Committee for the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
“Agriculture is true to its roots. Not only can it grow a crop or animal, but it can grow your career,” said Nic.