Kelly Turner, the Executive Director of the Michigan Potato Industry Commission (MPIC), has been honored with the prestigious title of “Spudwoman of the Year” by Spudman Magazine. This annual award recognizes outstanding female leaders in the U.S. potato industry for their significant contributions and achievements.
Key Points:
- Turner, who hails from a farming background in central Michigan, brings over a decade of experience, including 11 years with the Michigan Farm Bureau, to her role as the MPIC Executive Director.
- Her responsibilities include facilitating connections between agricultural stakeholders, state and federal policymakers, and the public to raise awareness about the economic importance and nutritional value of locally grown Michigan potatoes.
According to Spudman magazine, Turner’s dedication to maintaining a robust potato industry in Michigan, a state that ranked eighth nationally for potato production in 2022 with nearly 1.9 billion pounds, led to her selection as the 2024 Spudwoman of the Year.
Significance of Turner’s Work:
- Turner’s notable achievement includes spearheading a comprehensive report that highlights the substantial economic impact of the Michigan potato industry. The report revealed that the sector contributes $2.5 billion to the state’s economy annually and sustains 21,700 jobs in Michigan.
- Michigan stands out as the leading producer of potatoes used for making potato chips, solidifying its position as the potato chip capital of the United States, as indicated by the report.
Kelly Turner’s exceptional leadership and dedication to advancing the Michigan potato industry have earned her well-deserved recognition as the Spudwoman of the Year, showcasing her pivotal role in promoting the state’s potato sector’s growth and prosperity.
