Meet Troy Kontz: A Board Director Rooted in Agriculture and Service

Troy Kontz knows agriculture from the ground up. Just south of Brookings, South Dakota, he farms with his family on an operation that includes cattle, corn, and soybeans. As Vice President of the Agwrx Cooperative Board of Directors, he also helps shape the cooperative’s future. Today, his oldest son farms alongside him, continuing a family tradition that spans generations.

How He Got Involved

Kontz’s path to the cooperative board began through local connections. His father and a close neighbor had both served before him, setting an example of community involvement and service.
When a seat opened, that neighbor encouraged him to step forward. What began as a simple opportunity has since grown into 16 years of service.

How He Approaches Decisions

Over the years, Kontz says his understanding of board service has deepened. He has learned to focus on what is best for Agwrx as a whole, even when that means setting aside personal perspectives.
“When you’re in the boardroom, you have to put your own interests aside and make the best decisions for the co-op as a whole.”
Having worked with several managers and many fellow directors, he values the range of perspectives that shape board discussions and decisions.
“Everybody brings a different perspective into the boardroom.”

What He Has Learned

One of the biggest lessons Kontz has learned is just how much goes into the day-to-day operations of Agwrx.
He served as board secretary for 12 years, a role that gave him a closer view of how decisions are made and why it is important to consider the needs of different members.
He notes that every farming operation is different, and Agwrx needs to be flexible enough to meet those different needs.

Looking to the Future

Kontz believes Agwrx is financially strong and well positioned for the future. That strength allows the cooperative to stay focused on core services while also exploring new opportunities that benefit its members.
For him, staying flexible and thinking long term will continue to be essential.

Life Beyond the Boardroom

Outside of farming and board responsibilities, family remains a top priority. He and his wife have four children, and he enjoys being involved in their activities whenever he can.

What Matters Most

After 16 years on the board, Kontz says what stands out most is not a single decision. It is the relationships he has built with fellow directors, employees, members, and partners along the way.
For Kontz, board service comes down to one goal: doing the best possible job for Agwrx and the people it serves.
“We’re trying to do the best we can to make the best decisions for the co-op, and they are not always easy decisions.”
His Advice for Future Board Members
His advice for anyone considering board service is straightforward:

• Get uncomfortable.
• Try something new.
• Reach out to a board member.

He believes taking that first step is one of the best ways to better understand and strengthen Agwrx.