Recognizing Neal Fisher's Career at the Wheat Commission

NDWC Chairman Mark Birdsall & Former Administrator Neal Fisher.

Fisher's Long Career

Neal Fisher was honored by colleagues, board members, and staff in November for over forty years of pivotal service to the North Dakota Wheat Commission (NDWC). Officially retired on July 1, 2025, Neal began as Marketing Specialist in 1977, advanced to Deputy Administrator in 1983, and became Administrator in 1998, shaping the Commission's direction throughout his tenure.

Reflecting on his career in the wheat industry, Neal said he is most proud of the reputation the NDWC has built. “We’ve built good relationships that have benefited growers, customers, and the state of North Dakota as a whole. While our role has changed over the years, the Commission remains an organization that others look to for our leadership and expertise,” he said.

Not surprisingly, his work at the Commission changed dramatically over the years. When Neal began his career, market development looked very different. “We were traveling to other countries, literally knocking on doors of potential customers, almost flying by the seat of our pants,” he recalls. At times, the work and travel were even considered dangerous. “We’ve come a long way—it’s not necessarily easier, just different. We built relationships and partnerships to get where we are today. Some markets became strong, consistent customers, while others didn’t last. One thing we learned is that you don’t just enter a market; you have to maintain it,” he said.

Maintaining markets requires situational awareness—understanding customer needs and competition, and trade servicing. North Dakota wheat has a durable reputation. As one dedicated customer put it, “HRS accounts for less than 2% of global wheat production, but that’s the percent we want.”

Partnerships have also been key to research and trade policy efforts. Neal was extremely involved in both, and his work and leadership within various committees show that. He served on the Joint International Trade Policy Committee (U.S. Wheat Associates and National Association of Wheat Growers), the Agricultural Trade Advisory Committee (ATAC) of the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative, the Wheat Quality Council, and the NDSU Research Foundation, among others. His leadership and experience were well recognized - Fisher was named the NDSU Harvest Bowl Agriculture Person of the Year in 2012, was presented the ND Grain Growers Association Kernel Award and inducted into the ND Agriculture Hall of Fame in 2021, and earned an Honorary Doctorate in Agriculture from NDSU in 2022.

Fisher's Lasting Impact

While Neal accomplished much during his career, he emphasizes that the work was never about individual achievements. Instead, it was about what the Commission delivered for wheat producers and the broader industry. Ultimately, producer profitability is essential to long-term success. “It was an honor to work on behalf of North Dakota’s wheat producers,” Neal said. “I’m proud of what the Commission has accomplished.” He credits the progress made in promoting North Dakota wheat to the commitment of board members, the dedication of staff, and the strength of key partnerships.