Nebraska Corn Board Recognizes Agriculture Awards Winners
March 25, 2026
LINCOLN, Neb. – The Nebraska Corn Board (NCB) recognized four exceptional recipients for their dedication and contributions to the state's corn industry.
The highest recognition is the Ag Achievement Award. This honor, first presented in 1991, was designed to recognize outstanding and generous efforts to further the state’s corn industry. Dr. Terry Hejny and Duane Kristensen received the Ag Achievement Award for their efforts to promote Nebraska's corn industry.
Dr. Hejny grew up on a diversified crop and livestock farm in Seward County. He earned a bachelor’s degree in agricultural education from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL) in 1980, then went on to earn his master’s degree in 1998 and doctorate in 2010.
Dr. Hejny has been actively involved in the agricultural industry through local, state and national organizations. A LEAD program alumnus, he became director in 2007. In his role, Dr. Hejny led delegations to more than 40 countries, fostering global understanding and cooperation.
“Dr. Hejny has had a profound impact on many in Nebraska's agriculture industry, initially in agriculture extension and then leading a program in which many Nebraska Corn Board members have participated,” said Brandon Hunnicutt, chairman of NCB. “His dedication to leadership development and global cooperation has created a lasting legacy that will continue to shape the future of our industry.”
The Ag Achievement Award was also presented to Duane Kristensen, a strong leader in the agricultural community both state and nationwide. Kristensen earned a degree in agricultural economics from UNL and later served on the College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources Alumni Board, the Chancellor’s Advisory Board and the Nebraska Alumni Association Executive Board.
Kristensen began his career as a grain merchandiser while expanding the family farm. In 1986, during the farm crisis, he joined the ethanol industry with American Diversified Corporation in Hastings. The plant was later acquired by Chief Industries, where he spent much of his career helping it grow.
He held leadership roles with the American Coalition for Ethanol, the U.S. Grains and BioProducts Council and helped organize what is now Renewable Fuels Nebraska. He retired from Chief Industries in 2021.
“Duane has shown a life of service and achievement for agriculture, making a deep impact on the ethanol and corn industry,” said Andy Groskopf, NCB vice chairman. “As the growth of ethanol use and availability has grown, Duane’s dedication and tireless work have helped create new demand for our corn.”
The Nebraska Corn Board also presented its Ag Vision Award, which honors those who advance the board's goals of enhancing demand, adding value and ensuring sustainability, to Randy Gard and Timpte, Inc.
Gard has over 30 years of executive leadership and management experience. He served as president and CEO of Chief Automotive Technologies in Grand Island when it was part of Dover Corp., a Fortune 500 company.
As chief operating officer of Bosselman Enterprises and a member of the Nebraska Ethanol Board, Gard has promoted ethanol and biofuels development, creating new markets for Nebraska corn growers and supporting the state's ethanol industry growth.
In addition to his corporate roles, he is actively involved in state and federal governmental affairs, particularly in ethanol, biodiesel, hydrogen and EV markets. He has championed legislative bills focusing on renewable fuel incentives for retailers and continually advocated for the opportunity that ethanol and biofuels can have in today’s liquid fuel space.
“Randy is a true champion for Nebraska's farmers and the ethanol industry,” said Brandon Hunnicutt. “His dedication to promoting renewable fuels and connecting the fuel retail sector with biofuels has made a lasting impact on our industry.”
Timpte, Inc. was the other recipient presented with NCB’s Ag Vision award.
Timpte, Inc., founded in 1884, is the longest-operating semi-trailer company in North America. The privately owned company began building wagons for westward settlers in Denver before evolving into a manufacturer of commercial trailers. It is now headquartered and primarily manufactures in David City and is the top-selling dry bulk commodity trailer in North America.
In 2025, Timpte opened a new 190,000-square-foot manufacturing facility in Lincoln to support its David City operations.
“As farmers, the equipment we use plays an instrumental role in our operations,” said Ted Schrock, secretary/treasurer of NCB. “Being based in Nebraska allows farmers to buy local and support our state’s economy. Timpte's expansion continues to build support for Nebraska's corn industry.”
Each award winner was identified and selected by NCB.
The Nebraska Corn Board is funded through a producer investment of a one-cent-per-bushel checkoff on all corn marketed in the state and is managed by nine farmer directors. The mission of the Nebraska Corn Board to increase the value and sustainability of Nebraska corn through promotion, market development and research.