By Andi Anderson
Andrew Smelser has been selected as the new executive director of the Iowa Crop Improvement Association (ICIA), bringing more than two decades of experience in crop genetics, seed science, germplasm licensing, and agricultural research to the organization.
The Iowa Crop Improvement Association serves as Iowa’s official seed certifying agency and is a nonprofit affiliate of Iowa State University’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS). Smelser officially assumed his new role on July 27 after the position had been led on an interim basis by Doan Schmitz following the departure of former executive director Ryan Budnik.
“The College of Agriculture and Life Sciences is looking forward to working collaboratively with Andrew as the executive director for the Iowa Crop Improvement Association,” said Ruth MacDonald, acting dean of the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences. “Andrew brings great experience and expertise to the role. He has a depth of understanding of the ICIA that will allow him to hit the ground running to continue the important work of this longstanding organization.”
Smelser began his agricultural career more than 22 years ago with the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Agricultural Research Service. He worked as a technician with the Germplasm Enhancement of Maize Project in Ames, gaining valuable experience in crop research and plant improvement.
He later spent nearly nine years with MBS Genetics LLC and Peterson Corn Genetics LLC as a regional account manager. During this period, he managed accounts across seven states, coordinated field trials, organized research data, supported product development, and contributed to annual corn product planning and forecasting.
In another key leadership role, Smelser served as germplasm licensing manager for Inari Agriculture. There, he worked closely with industry partners, negotiated licensing agreements, evaluated emerging technologies, and supported plant breeding programs designed to improve crop performance and innovation.
A graduate of Iowa State University, Smelser earned a bachelor’s degree in agronomy and seed science, followed by a master’s degree in plant breeding. His academic background and professional experience have prepared him for leading one of Iowa’s most important agricultural organizations.
Smelser is also familiar with ICIA’s operations and goals. He served on the association’s board of directors for seven years, including three-and-a-half years as vice president. He participated in oversight activities and strategic initiatives related to germplasm excellence and patenting while collaborating with the organization throughout his career.
“I am honored and excited to join the Iowa Crop Improvement Association as its new executive director and to contribute to its long-standing commitment to Iowa agriculture,” Smelser said. “Throughout my 22 years in this industry, I have learned that success is built through strong connections, collaboration and shared purpose. I look forward to working alongside others to help drive the continued success and future growth of this organization.”
As executive director, Smelser will oversee seed certification programs, Iowa Crop Performance Tests, field operations, compliance efforts, financial planning, staff leadership, and strategic development. He will work closely with the ICIA board, Iowa State University, regulatory agencies, industry groups, and agricultural partners to support continued growth and innovation within the organization.
Photo Credit: iowa-state-university
Categories: Iowa, Crops, General