Millershaski Named U.S. Wheat Associates Leader at the Summer Board Meeting

Kansas wheat leaders played prominent roles during the 2026 U.S. Wheat Associates (USW) summer board meeting, held June 22-25 in Fargo, North Dakota, as discussions centered on global market opportunities, wheat research and the long-term competitiveness of U.S. wheat.

The annual meeting brought together wheat growers, industry representatives and USW staff from across the country to discuss market conditions, export demand, transportation, food aid and investments that support U.S. wheat's presence in international markets.

The week concluded with an important leadership transition for Kansas Wheat. Gary Millershaski, who farms near Leoti, Kansas, officially became chairman of U.S. Wheat Associates, succeeding North Dakota farmer Jim Pellman.

Millershaski takes the reins of the organization at a key time for the wheat industry. Despite weather-related production challenges and continued uncertainty in global markets, U.S. wheat exports finished the 2025/2026 marketing year on a strong note, increasing nearly 15 percent to 23.7 million metric tons (870.8 million bushels), the highest export volume in five years.

As chairman, Millershaski will help lead the organization’s efforts to develop export markets and strengthen relationships with customers in more than 100 countries worldwide.

The passing of the gavel marked the culmination of a week focused on maintaining and expanding demand for U.S. wheat. Committee meetings examined topics ranging from transportation and food aid programs to long-range planning and wheat quality, all aimed at ensuring U.S. wheat remains competitive in the global marketplace.

Kansas leadership was also highlighted during a panel discussion titled “Funding and Collaboration for Future Wheat Research Success.” Aaron Harries, vice president of research and operations for Kansas Wheat, joined North Dakota State University researchers Dr. Andrew Green and Dr. Andrew Friskop to discuss the importance of investing in research and building partnerships that address future challenges facing wheat producers.

The panel explored how collaboration among universities, state commissions and industry organizations can accelerate innovation and ensure producers have access to improved varieties and management tools needed to remain competitive. Harries pointed to the Musil Center for Sustainable Wheat Production as an example of how strategic partnerships can strengthen research capacity and accelerate the development of the next generation of wheat varieties.

The board meeting also featured presentations on the return on investment of export promotion activities, chances for growth in Sub-Saharan Africa, global supply-and-demand trends, advances in wheat breeding and end-use quality.

For Kansas wheat farmers, the meeting served as a reminder that the work of maintaining export markets, developing new markets and investing in research goes beyond the farm. With Millershaski assuming leadership of U.S. Wheat Associates, the next summer board meeting will be held in Kansas in 2027.