If you’ve been keeping up with the state’s largest farm organization, Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation, you’ve probably noticed a lot of new faces in various leadership roles.
One of these new faces is Chief Administrative Officer Bradley Uken. He started his role in February, and there’s been several new appointments to the team since then.
He addresses the employee turnover, but emphasizes that it gives them a fresh perspective on how to reach Wisconsin Farm Bureau’s goals. First, he tells us his initial reactions to Wisconsin agriculture and how it compares to his home state of Illinois.
Uken was born and raised on a corn, soybean and wheat farm in Champaign County, Illinois. His family also operated a small farrow to finish hog farm. He attended Parkland College for two years before transferring to Illinois State University in Bloomington-Normal where he earned a degree in agri-business. Uken is married to Christine and has three children.
As CAO, Uken oversees all day-to-day operations and staff for Wisconsin Farm Bureau. He’s worked for Illinois Farm Bureau his entire career. During this time, he has served members in three counties including Stark, Bureau and Champaign.
“Farm Bureau is a great organization, one that continuously strives to serve our members,” says Uken.
In his previous role managing Champaign County Farm Bureau, Uken advocated for the agricultural industry by providing information to members, helping them make the best decisions for their farm and investment. He also assisted in educational efforts with youth in the county and consumer engagement. The Champaign County Farm Bureau is a 10,000-plus membership-based organization driven by the efforts of volunteers including a 31-member board of directors.
