FARGO, NORTH DAKOTA, U.S. — Mark Weber has been named the new director of Northern Crops Institute (NCI) after a national search, NCI announced on Aug. 18. He will assume his new duties on Sept. 19.

Weber has more than 18 years of experience in agricultural leadership. He served as the executive director for the Red River Valley Sugarbeet Growers Association (RRVSGA) for 12 years and, previous to that position, he served as the first executive director of the North Dakota Soybean Council and Growers Association for nearly six years.


"This is a wonderful opportunity," said Weber. "Agriculture has an exciting future filled with challenges. The Northern Crops Institute has had a strong role in agriculture's past successes and has an impeccable reputation regionally and nationally, as well as worldwide."

"Part of the reason for the region's agricultural success is due to our export markets. Through its technical education and services, NCI has played a large part in that success. The 21st century is here, and Northern Crops Institute will have a solid place in that future. I am happy to be part of NCI," Weber said.

Robert Majkrzak, chair of the Northern Crops Council, said, "Mark brings to NCI a unique blend of agriculture leadership, involvement with commodity groups, work on legislative issues, and most importantly, his experience as a grower. These broad experiences will continue to enhance the Northern Crops Institute's long established world reputation for promoting crops. Mark's energy, vision, communication and leadership skills will make him a pleasure to work with."

Weber earned his bachelor’s of science degree in mechanized agriculture and agronomy and a master’s of science degree in agriculture economics from North Dakota State University.

He replaces Brian Sorenson, who left in March to join Dakota Specialty Milling, Fargo, North Dakota, U.S.