News and Events

By John Osterhaus

Serving on the WCO board has been a rewarding experience, both professionally and personally. Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to grow not only as a business owner, but also as a leader within this industry. Being part of WCO has pushed me to think beyond my own business and consider the bigger picture—how we support one another, improve safety, and continue moving the custom industry forward.

One of the most valuable aspects of serving on the board is the people you meet along the way. Through WCO and our connections with U.S. Custom Harvesters and other industry groups, I’ve had the chance to meet operators from across the Midwest and throughout the country. It’s always encouraging to hear that others are familiar with WCO and recognize the work being done in Wisconsin. Those conversations—whether at meetings, events, or out in the field—reinforce the strength of this organization and the reputation it has built over time.

Our board meetings are another highlight of the experience. We intentionally rotate locations around the state and pair meetings with tours of member businesses, equipment manufacturers, or ag businesses. That gives us the chance to learn from a wide range of businesses and perspectives. No two locations are the same, and each visit brings new ideas that we can take back to our own businesses and share with the membership.

These experiences also provide valuable insight into how diverse our industry really is. From large-scale businesses to smaller businesses, each stop offers a different perspective on how operators manage crews, equipment, and risk. Seeing these approaches in action helps spark new ideas and encourages continuous improvement, both individually and as an organization.

While we offer a call-in option for meetings, there’s no substitute for being there in person. Some of the most valuable conversations happen in between agenda items—during meals, on tours, or just catching up before and after meetings. Those moments help build stronger relationships within the board, and that connection carries over into better discussions and decision-making. It’s those shared experiences that bring the group closer together and make the work we do more effective.

I’m grateful for the opportunity to serve alongside a dedicated board who care deeply about this industry. WCO continues to be a place where ideas are shared, challenges are discussed openly, and solutions are built together. I encourage anyone who has an interest to get involved—whether that’s attending events, participating in discussions, or considering future leadership roles. It’s an investment that pays back in knowledge, relationships, and growth.