Students spent time with Frank Doll and Heather Roberts at Prairie Farms Headquarter office in Edwardsville last week. They were welcome with plenty of variety of Prairie Farms drinks and donuts! Frank is a 3rd generational dairy farmer and local graduate that has always found himself in leadership. From sports to now the President of the Board of Directors at Prairie Farms, he enjoys the opportunities that have come from hard work. Heather has been with Prairie Farms for over nine years and brings a wealth of knowledge to the Board, the CEO and working with the many director level positions across the country. We learned so much about Prairie Farms and they impact they have regionally and continue to grow! Here are a few things that we learned!
- Prairie Farms is a Co-op that sells products in all 50 states, with their core business in the Midwest heartland with almost 50 processing plants.
- Prairie Farms represents a $5B business with over 8000 employees and continues to expand, including a second building going up!
- Take every opportunity and always be the CEO of any position. Own it. The work ethic will always breed more success.
- Always do the right thing! No matter who is watching, will always do what's best for your company and clients.
- Sometimes you have to shift in business - no matter if changes in contracts, or government requirements.
- Building relationships is the key to expanded growth - including getting into more states as more business presents itself.
- Brand recognition is key. For Prairie Farms - owing the cooler is always a goal!
- Don't overlook the details. When we own the position, we do whatever it takes to get things done!

This was a great visit and we learned so much about our local milk producer! Thank you for sharing with Gateway CEO!