ND Soybean Council Welcomes New Director of Industry Relations

The North Dakota Soybean Council (NDSC) welcomes Craig Kleven as its director of industry relations. In this newly created role, Kleven is responsible for establishing, expanding and maintaining key relationships with industry partners and stakeholders for North Dakota soybean producers and the state.

Originally from Maddock, North Dakota, Kleven grew up on a farm and ranch in the Sheyenne River Valley. He most recently served as the agricultural education state supervisor and executive secretary of North Dakota FFA.

“The NDSC is very pleased to have Craig join our team as director of industry relations,” says NDSC Executive Director Stephanie Sinner. “This position serves a critical role in supporting the North Dakota soybean producers and the industry. Craig brings to the position true passion and enthusiasm for working for North Dakota soybean producers. His work experience will contribute to the success of the NDSC, bringing greater value to North Dakota soybean farmers. We are delighted to have Craig on our team.”

Kleven previously served as the agronomy manager at Central Dakota Frontier Cooperative, as an associate professor at Bismarck State College and as a Kidder County Extension agent with North Dakota State University’s (NDSU) Extension Service. He is a graduate of NDSU, holding master’s and bachelor’s degrees in agriculture education.

“I am excited to represent North Dakota soybean producers and work closely with production agriculture,” states Kleven. “I am thrilled to work collaboratively with soybean industry representatives in our state to ensure opportunities are pursued to expand the demand for North Dakota soybeans and create awareness of the industry.”

Kleven will be based in Bismarck and will work from NDSU Extension’s Central and West District Office in Bismarck.