“Gary brings to the association not only a vast amount of knowledge in the beef industry, but has experience in connecting producers, feedlots and packers to reach a high-quality end point,” said Twig Marston, association CEO. “We’re excited about his ability to lead our marketing team and see the positive aspect he will have on Red Angus stakeholders.”

Fike has 10 years of experience as a beef cattle specialist for Certified Angus Beef LLC, where he coordinated efforts with universities, feedlots and producers to drive the supply of Angus-sired cattle. He also has vast experience in extension work developing educational programs and conducting on-farm research pertaining to the cow-calf and feedlot industry.

"I am excited to begin working for the RAAA because I believe in the value of Red Angus cattle in today's beef industry climate,” said Fike. “They have so many great traits: maternal, calving ease, fertility, etc – and superior carcass quality, which ultimately drives consumer demand for the cattle.”

Fike received his Bachelor of Science degree in vocational agriculture education from Oklahoma Panhandle State University, Goodwell, Oklahoma. Then he went on to earn his master’s degree in ruminant nutrition from Kansas State University, Manhattan, Kansas. He currently resides and will be based out of Westmoreland, Kansas.

“This breed is very oriented to the commercial side of the beef industry, and that will serve stakeholders well in the short-, mid- and long-term future,” said Fike. “I sincerely believe that Red Angus cattle are positioned for growth in these early stages of rebuilding the cowherd in the U.S. due to their widespread acceptance, and are adaptable to any area of the country."

Fike began his duties at the RAAA Dec. 8.  

—From Red Angus Association of America news release