In the dictionary next to the word multitasking, there should be a photo of Moses Palmer. His days are a whirlwind of lab analyses, customer service, and overseeing the seamless flow of operations at 20/20 Seed Labs in Nisku, Alta., where he works as senior seed analyst and lab manager. But Palmer is more than that; he’s becoming a driving force in the seed testing community.
Beyond the lab’s walls, Palmer delivers high-impact training sessions in grading, seed identification and germination to seed industry professionals.
The 36-year-old’s journey to leadership was paved with hands-on experience. Before his tenure at 20/20 Seed Labs, he spearheaded agricultural initiatives in Ghana’s rice industry. Leading a diverse team, he empowered local farmers, creating symbiotic relationships that bridged small-scale growers with commercial producers.
“I actually didn’t intend to leave Ghana to come to Canada,” Palmer says. “But circumstances led me here when my wife started a PhD program at the University of Alberta, and we were expecting our first child. It was a shift that propelled me into a new chapter in life.”
Palmer’s role at 20/20 Seed Labs reflects not only his expertise but also his commitment to bridging the gap between the lab and the field. Palmer is tasked with overseeing operations and also nurturing the next generation of agricultural innovators through teaching and mentorship.
Palmer’s dedication to education is matched only by his passion for fostering a supportive work environment, particularly for those balancing family commitments. Palmer notes that employers are now more understanding of the need for employees to spend time with their families. 20/20 Seed Labs even set up a school at its lab during the pandemic to accommodate parents.
“Understanding the individual needs of team members and navigating personal struggles can be demanding, but it’s also an opportunity for growth and connection.”
Looking to the future, Palmer is eager to further immerse himself in industry dynamics and explore opportunities for collaboration and innovation.
“Building capacity within our lab to deliver actionable insights to our customers is crucial. I’m excited to engage with stakeholders and chart a course towards sustainable growth.”
