The road to success is a constant journey

You have probably heard business and sports figures say, “The road to success is always under construction.” It’s a metaphor that recognizes the continuous and dynamic nature of achieving success. The thought suggests that success is bigger than just a destination. It is more of a journey that requires constant evaluation and adjustment of plans and goals.

For each of us individually and the organizations we serve, success is defined differently. Our path to success will be unique, with different challenges, obstacles and rewards.

Regardless of your definition of success, for those of us in agriculture, that road may contain as much uncertainty and volatility now as it ever has, including potential tax law changes, Sec 199(a), the second extension of a Farm Bill and commodity values at or below production expenses. We can’t be discouraged by the potholes we encounter. We must look for opportunities for growth and improvement.

MFA continues to position the company by adjusting how we do business. We are enhancing processes, technology, facilities and operations—all with the goal of better serving member needs.

In addition to those changes, MFA is active in promoting policies, regulations and opportunities that impact your operations and ours—not just today but into the future. We continue to work with and through the National Council of Farmer Cooperatives (NCFC) to address policy issues. Since January, NCFC staff and leaders from member cooperatives have worked tirelessly to stay in front of a rapidly changing landscape. MFA’s six-member legislative committee has plans to meet with congressional leaders on July 15 and 16 to address policy. This trip is in conjunction with the NCFC Washington Conference and includes cooperative directors from across the United States. While we are cautiously hopeful for a favorable resolution on key issues, that is far from a certainty. Initial committee recommendations could ultimately change.

Company leadership also works closely with industry organizations, collectively seeking to be your voice in aspects critical to farming, such as timely and fair regulations, registrations and approvals. Most recently, that included addressing potential tariffs and defining available options to bring in quality products that minimize cost increases for you.  

Another focus for MFA is people. It all starts with Team MFA and the effort to provide them with the tools and training they need to excel in servicing your needs. That skill set changes rapidly. It is a constant effort.

To that end, we strongly believe in providing opportunities for future leaders. In mid-May, we welcomed our 13th Ag Experience intern class. This is a diverse group of students who will cover a variety of our business areas. It is a great opportunity for them to get to know MFA and for MFA to evaluate talent from colleges throughout our trade area.

In May, nearly 300 high school seniors were awarded $2,500 scholarships by MFA Oil Company, MFA Incorporated and our local affiliates for school year 2026.

Our recruitment and talent development area has also worked with State Fair Community College and North Central Missouri College to build and enhance their agriculture programs for students in pursuit of careers that meet the needs we have in our business.  

At Team MFA, we are focused on the journey and proud to be part of agriculture and your operations. An industry that drives food security in the United States and worldwide is worth fighting for.