AAGIWA would like to recognize and highlight women in the grain inspection industry who are leading the way for others. Click here to submit your nomination.

We are pleased to introduce you to Kari Schiller, Lab Coordinator for the Montana State Grain Lab. Kari was hired by the Montana Department of Agriculture in 2012 during harvest as a part-time "Ag Inspector" and quickly rose through the ranks. Kari has not only worked herself into the position of Lab Coordinator, but has also obtained 10 different commodity grading licenses.

Before coming to the Montana State Grain Lab, Kari worked in the restaurant industry where she managed a restaurant in Great Falls, Montana. She mentioned before joining the State Grain Lab in 2012 that she "didn't even know the difference between wheat and barley" and is now grading 10 different commodities. Kari was born and raised in Great Falls, Montana, and attended the University of Providence, studying physical education while playing volleyball for the University. Fun fact - Kari also played volleyball at the Junior Olympics in Colorado Springs.

According to Dan Reimer, Director of the Montana State Grain Lab, "Kari would tell you that she is just one of the boys, but she plays a vital role here at the lab and serves as an extremely valuable resource to the entire Federal Grain Inspection System. Her 10 commodity grading licenses and 10 plus years of experience serve the industry and State of Montana extremely well. Along with daily duties, Kari also serves as a Public Relations Liaison for the Lab as they work to serve grain elevators all over the state to the highest standard.

Kari is known around the Lab as a hard worker, giving nothing but her best. Early mornings, late nights, long drives, and inclement weather are only a few of the challenges Kari faces head on. When Montana experienced catastrophic rainfall in 2014 the Lab as in harvest from July through February due to poor grain quality causing a backlog of samples. During this hectic time, Kari worked 10 hour days, 7 days a week to ensure Montana's farmers were provided the most accurate grading available.

The Montana Department of Agriculture is proud to have Kari as an integral part of the State Grain Lab and commends her dedication to agriculture, her peers, and Montana's farmers and ranchers. Congratulations Kari on all of your accomplishments! You are a wonderful example of hard work and commitment, and we are proud to have you as part of the grain inspection family.

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Recognizing Women in Grain Inspection - Kari Schiller