World Potato Congress Welcomes Dr. Chad Hutchinson of TriCal Group as New Director

With upcoming term retirements of Directors from the World Potato Congress Inc Board, the WPC is delighted to welcome newly elected Director Chad Hutchinson, PhD, into its Governance.

A Hoosier by birth, Chad Hutchinson cultivated a deep appreciation for agriculture from his early days growing up amidst Indiana’s farmlands. An early respect for farmers and farming guided him into a career in plant science. Chad’s academic journey began at Ball State University, where he earned both his B.S. and M.S. degrees in biology. He then pursued his passion for plants at Purdue University, completing his Ph.D. in Plant Physiology/Horticulture.

Dr. Hutchinson's background in horticulture led him to the University of Florida, where he served as a faculty member and the state's potato specialist for a decade. In this role, he directly supported potato growers, sharing critical knowledge and solutions in crop nutrition, variety development, and soil fumigation. His transition to the private sector in 2007 marked a new chapter as he joined TriEst Ag Group, Inc. as Director of Research. His impactful contributions led to a promotion in 2020 to Global Director of Potato Research and Market Support for the entire TriCal Group.

Throughout his career, Dr. Hutchinson has collaborated with potato producers across the globe. His work spans crucial areas such as variety selection, crop nutrition, soil health, and soil disease suppression, working to help farmers achieve their production goals. Chad is recognized for his understanding of crop production and soil fumigation practices, and their direct influence on potato crop yield and quality. He has been an invited speaker worldwide, including presenting at the World Potato Congress, sharing his positivity and insights on soil fumigation, soil health, and advanced potato crop production techniques.

Peter VanderZaag, President of the World Potato Congress:

"Chad and TriCal Group have been longtime supporters of the World Potato Congress Inc. and our initiatives. His reach, in particular in understanding the potato crop production challenges faced by global south countries, will bring experience, expertise, and fresh perspectives that will greatly enhance our organization’s mandate. The World Potato Congress looks forward to working with Chad as Director."