When Nathan Penner joined FP Genetics nearly six years ago, he was focused on hybrid rye seed production. Fast forward to today, and he’s now leading commercialization efforts, ensuring a steady flow of competitive cereal and pulse varieties for Western Canadian farmers. But his role has evolved beyond just Canada.
“It’s been a lot of fun. It’s been a lot of learning,” Penner says of his transition to his current role.
Penner was in Winnipeg for the Prairie Grain Development Committee (PGDC) meetings last week, an annual event that brings together plant breeders, government officials, and industry stakeholders.
One of the most recent developments at FP Genetics has been looking beyond Western Canada. “Our core market will always be here, but we see so many opportunities internationally,” Penner says. Hybrid rye has been a gateway for that expansion. “We’ve had great uptake in Western Canada, and now we’re forming partnerships in Eastern Canada and the U.S.,” he explains.
Penner believes that the seed industry benefits hugely from cross-border collaboration. “Over the past three years as I’ve been in my current role, I’ve been surprised by how many people across the globe are aligned on the same goals. If you’re open to discussions, you’ll find opportunities to collaborate. That’s what makes this industry so rewarding.”
