Kjolhaug “represents the best of what IPSA stands for: collaboration, dedication, and a true commitment to supporting the independent seed sector.” – Todd Martin, IPSA CEO.
At the IPSA 2025 conference, held in Palm Springs January 7 and 8, Paul Kjolhaug of MayerSeedLine was recognized with the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award, celebrating over four decades of contributions to the independent seed sector. Kjolhaug’s career reflects a dedication to collaboration, innovation, and fostering trusted relationships—values at the core of independent seed companies. As Todd Martin, CEO of IPSA, says, Kjolhaug “personifies the heart of our industry.”
Kjolhaug is humble about his success. In a conversation following his award, he expressed heartfelt gratitude for the relationships he’s built throughout his career. “I feel so blessed,” he shared. “I love what I do, and I love the people I work with, both internally and in the broader industry. It’s been an incredible journey.”
Reflecting on his career, he added, “I’ve been fortunate to know some truly remarkable people. If the Lord were to take me today, I’d say it’s been an amazing ride. I’ve been blessed beyond belief.”
Kjolhaug’s journey in agriculture began on his family’s farm in northern Minnesota, where he seeded a lifelong appreciation for farming and the agricultural industry. After high school, he pursued his passion for agriculture academically, earning a degree in agronomy with a focus in plant science from the University of Minnesota.
Following graduation, Kjolhaug returned home to farm alongside his brother on their family’s homestead. Alongside co-managing the farm, Kjolhaug also launched his professional career in the seed industry at Northern Farm and Garden, a forage grass and legume seed company in northern Minnesota. There, he wore many hats, handling everything from seed conditioning to packaging and administration to management tasks. This early experience provided him with an in-depth understanding of the technical and operational aspects of seed production.
As Kjolhaug gained experience, his role expanded to include sunflower, sugar beet, and soybean seed production with Interstate Seed Company, a partner company to Northern Farm and Garden. During this time, he oversaw seed production and export operations, including hybrid seed corn production destined for Western Europe. These varied roles deepened Kjolhaug’s technical expertise and allowed him to build valuable relationships with growers, researchers, and distributors. The blend of practical knowledge and strategic thinking became a hallmark of Kjolhaug’s approach, enabling him to connect with both growers and industry leaders on a personal and professional level, laying the groundwork for his future leadership in the seed sector.
In 2002, Kjolhaug bought into MayerSeed, Inc, then merged it with SeedLine in 2005 to form MayerSeedLine, cementing his role as a leading broker and consultant in the industry. His commitment to fostering trusted relationships has been instrumental in the company’s success. Kjolhaug’s hands-on approach, coupled with his deep network of industry connections, allows him to solve complex challenges, whether it’s sourcing specialized genetics or advising customers on strategic opportunities. These qualities have earned him deep respect and admiration from colleagues, customers, and partners alike.
His commitment to helping others, his openness to collaboration, and his unwavering dedication to supporting the independent seed industry exemplify what IPSA’s Lifetime Achievement Award is all about. As IPSA CEO Todd Martin said, “Paul is welcoming, warm, and collaborative: qualities that define the independent seed sector. This award isn’t about retirement—it’s about honoring a lifetime of impact, and Paul truly embodies the spirit of this recognition.”
Looking forward, Kjolhaug plans to step back from the daily operations of MayerSeedLine, focusing more on his family while remaining available to support his team and the industry he loves. “I’ve moved out of the daily decision-making and handed those responsibilities to our leadership team, but I’m always here to support them when they need me,” he shared. With nine grandchildren and nearly 48 years of marriage, Kjolhaug plans to dedicate more time to his family while finding meaningful ways to continue serving at large.
“Paul’s impact goes far beyond MayerSeedLine,” Martin emphasized. “He represents the best of what IPSA stands for—collaboration, dedication, and a true commitment to supporting the independent seed sector.”
From all of us across the seed industry, Paul, congratulations on a well-deserved award, and thank you for your exceptional service to the industry!
