Employee Spotlight: David Illig
Although the agriculture industry and our products/services may change over the years, one consistent factor remains; our employees are one of the most important ingredients in our recipe for success. Through our Employee Spotlight Blog Series, learn about the people who make up the Stutsman team. David Illig joined the team in 2017 and is our feed purchasing & compliance manager!
David handles the responsibility of compliance manager, insuring we stay on top of all regulations and maintain our Safe Feed/Safe Food certification status. He also handles our Veterinary Feed Directive (VFD) procedures. In 2017, the FDA imposed the VFD rule for use of antibiotics in animal livestock production. David has led us in implementing protocols to insure we are compliant with the imposed regulations. This is not the most fun or rewarding task, but David has done a fantastic job taking the lead in this very important compliance issue.” – Terry Hurshman, VP of Feed Ingredients.
What are your responsibilities?
As purchasing manager, I primarily purchase medicated feed. For compliance, I ensure all processes are followed correctly, prepare for customer and FDA audits, and maintain our Safe Feed/Safe Food Certification. I handle the VFD (Veterinary Feed Directive) program as well.
What is your background?
I grew up on an acreage in Johnstown, Pennsylvania, and moved to Chicago during my senior year of high school. After working in the construction field for two years, I settled into a manufacturing company’s management position. Six years later I moved to Colorado because it was cheaper to move than ski there that year!
Prior to Stutsmans, I worked Nypro Colorado (plastic injection manufacturer), Sunrise Medical (wheelchair manufacturer) and Cargill. Through my various jobs, I have over 40 years of purchasing experience. We moved back to Iowa and are living on and managing my wife’s family farm.
What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?
My wife and I converted the barn on the property into an event center barn where we host weddings, birthday parties, and more! I also enjoy farming our 170 acres.
What do you consider to be the most rewarding part of your job?
Learning new things! While understanding the new compliance procedures was challenging, it was fun for me to know I can still learn new things outside my original scope.
What is something random most people don’t know about you?
I’m not allowed to drive all of the “big boy” vehicles on the farm!
If you had to eat the same food for the rest of your life what would it be?
Roast beef, mashed potatoes, and peas.
If you were stuck on an island what 3 items would you bring?
My wife, a flashlight, and matches!
What would be the title of your autobiography?
It Is Done
What’s on your bucket list?
I don’t really have a bucket list, but we’re hoping to have grandchildren in the future!
What has been the biggest change in the industry during your tenure here?
The VFD program implemented by the FDA; it’s made a large leap forward in the past five years.
If you had to be a product you work with, what would it be and why?
Bird seed because I’d be able to feed God’s creations!
What is your favorite thing about the ag industry?
There’s many opportunities to learn new things and it’s always changing.
What Stutsman Core Value means the most to you? Why?
Exceed Expectations! If you want to do something, do it well, do it right, and do it the best you can.
