MANKATO, Minn. — A longtime leader in the pork industry is being recognized for his lasting impact on agribusiness, rural communities, and pork production.

Gary Koch, a foundational leader at Christensen Farms, was honored last week with the Futures Builder Award from GreenSeam during the organization’s Rural Forum in Mankato, Minnesota. The award recognizes individuals whose leadership helps shape the future of agriculture and food production across the region.

Koch has been part of Christensen Farms nearly since its inception, playing a critical role in building and growing the company alongside the late founder Bob Christensen, the Christensen family, and the broader Christensen Farms team. His leadership helped guide Christensen Farms through decades of expansion, innovation, and long-term sustainability in pork production.

Throughout his career, Koch was known for his steady leadership, strategic vision, and commitment to people — values that continue to define Christensen Farms as one of the Midwest’s leading pork production organizations.

Although Koch has recently retired from day-to-day operations, his influence remains strong. He continues to serve on the Christensen Farms Board of Directors, providing guidance and institutional knowledge to support the next generation of pork industry leaders.

The Futures Builder Award aligns closely with GreenSeam’s mission to elevate the region as a world-class food and agribusiness epicenter, strengthening collaboration across pork production, animal agriculture, ag technology, and rural economic development.

Leaders like Gary Koch exemplify the behind-the-scenes work that builds strong pork production systems — from farm to community — ensuring the industry remains resilient, innovative, and prepared for the future.

Christensen Farms expressed gratitude for Koch’s decades of service and leadership, noting that his impact will continue to shape the organization and the pork industry for years to come.