Lacey Schumacher: The Path to Genetic Leadership

Today, we are shining a light on Lacey Schumacher, a valued team member driving innovation and excellence here at AcuFast. Her journey reaches from family farm to Genetic Supervisor and ultimately a sales leader. She embodies the dedication to livestock and unwavering commitment to agriculture we value.

Lacey's roots in agriculture run deep. Raised on a family farm specializing in row crops and Simmental cattle, her passion for livestock started at a young age. "I was always involved in showing cattle and livestock judging in high school," she recalls. This early exposure solidified her love for the field and sent her looking for a career that would allow her to make a meaningful impact there.

While Lacey knew she wanted to be involved in the business side of agriculture, she was uncertain about the specific path to take. When a family friend introduced her to the role of Genetic Supervisor at AcuFast, she realized she had found her path. "The moment I had my initial walk-through on the sow farm, I was mind-blown," she shares. Exposure to the commercial side of the swine industry and the vast amount of data collected showed her a world of new possibilities.

"The moment I had my initial walk-through on the sow farm, I was mind-blown,"

Lacey joined AcuFast in 2020, starting at our genetic nucleus in Illinois. Initially a Genetic Supervisor, she gained hands-on experience in production and genetic protocols, overseeing research, mating decisions, gilt selection, and data quality. By 2022, Lacey was promoted to Genetic Manager Trainee, where she gained experience across the entire footprint of the business. In 2023, her journey took another leap when she transitioned into a sales role as an Account Manager. In her current role, in addition to her sales duties she continues to be a valuable asset in the genetic selection process. She utilizes her expertise to also oversee selection for both nucleus and commercial boar studs, and selection from multipliers in the U.S.

Lacey's journey in genetics was particularly complimentary for her current sales role, the hands-on experience in a sow farm, finisher, and boar stud was invaluable. "Being able to see the product created and understand what happens on the ground level gives me confidence in what I am selling," she explains. This allows her to empathize with producers and address their challenges effectively. Ultimately, her belief in the product and her desire to help others succeed motivated her transition from genetics to sales. "I wanted to make an impact in operations," she states.

"Being able to see the product created and understand what happens on the ground level gives me confidence in what I am selling,"

For Lacey, the company's product and promising trajectory is what is most fulfilling. One of the defining moments in Lacey's career was listening to AcuFast leaders discuss the company's future direction. "Every decision is strategic," she notes, emphasizing the company's commitment to customers and their success. "We have a tremendous team from operations, customer success, and technology," she says. The company's emphasis on teamwork and continuous improvement, coupled with a strong focus on education and development, sets it apart in the industry.

Lacey attributes AcuFast leaders to her significant professional growth. "I have always asked for more, and my leaders have done everything they can to help me succeed and get to where I want to go," she shares. The development plan created for her was instrumental in her growth and preparing for her current sales role.

 "I have always asked for more, and my leaders have done everything they can to help me succeed and get to where I want to go,"

Lacey offers valuable advice for those considering a career in the swine industry: "If you aspire to be in sales, management, or anything in the swine industry, the best place to start is here. Think of it as your foundation for building your future. A strong foundation leads to a sturdy, long-lasting career."

Reflecting on her journey, she notes the impact of the people around her. "There are so many good people in this industry, no matter what name is on their shirt," she says. The support and camaraderie she has experienced at AcuFast has made all the difference. "Helping find solutions and getting to know talented, smart, ambitious, and kind people within the industry has been the most rewarding aspect of my career so far."

Lacey is a fantastic example of where a career in swine genetics can take you. The team at AcuFast is full of passionate employees just like Lacey. If you are a highly motivated person with a passion for innovative thinking and excellence and are interested in a career in swine genetics, consider joining our team!

Consider joining our genetic team? View our current genetic team opening here!