The spring issue of the Custom News is here!

In this issue:

• Feature: WCO makes board changes
• Policy corner
• WCO awards scholarships
• WCO news 

By Raymond Liska

Years ago, a group of individuals sat down together in a town hall style fashion because they wanted to change the outcome of their situation. 
Ideas and goals were discussed, alliances were formed, decisions were made, and from that meeting came a group of individuals with the motivation to make a difference. 

And while they weren’t drafting the declaration of independence, they were drafting what would eventually become Wisconsin Act 377; giving agriculture on the highways the definition and clarity it needed to propel the Wisconsin agricultural machine to become one of the greatest fleets in the world. 

Like many agricultural supply chain partners, custom farmers struggle to find qualified CDL drivers. This is an ongoing problem that has been exacerbated by the pandemic and increased demand for drivers. Two years ago, during Dairy Day at the Capitol, WCO members discussed this issue with their elected leaders. Fast forward to today, with the pandemic hopefully in the rearview, WCO is working with fellow ag groups to address ongoing CDL challenges.

The Wisconsin Custom Operators, Inc. (WCO) recently awarded two scholarships to students pursuing further education. These students were selected based on leadership, civic engagement, academics and volunteer activities related to agriculture. Students also submitted essays detailing their educational and vocational plans for the future. Scholarship winners are required to have ties to the WCO – either as a member, relative or employee of a member, or as a relative of a member client. Students received a $1,000 or $1,500 scholarship.

Wisconsin Custom Operators members elected two directors, welcomed an advisor and honored retiring directors during the group’s annual business meeting on Feb. 23, held in conjunction with the Forage Symposium at the Chula Vista Resort.