Michael Poppen has always been a “numbers guy” with a love of agriculture. It made sense, then, that he would earn a degree in Agricultural Economics — knowledge he has applied to his family’s farm operation in Wahpeton, N.D.. Now he can also put his studies to use as a Regional Sales Manager for Latham Hi-Tech Seeds, running numbers and helping Latham® dealers find the perfect planting equation for their fields.
“What I’m looking forward to the most is cultivating relationships with current and new dealers,” says Michael, who, along with his younger brother John, still works on the same farm that their dad grew up on. “Farmers in my area hold a wealth of knowledge, and I look forward to getting to work with them and hear their experiences.”
Michael has worked on Poppen Farms since he was very young, learning everything he could from his dad. Growing up, he enjoyed the smell of the dirt when they were planting and then taking care of the crops throughout the season. But Michael says some of his fondest memories are during harvest, when he and John spent long days in the field with their dad “taking off a good soybean crop.”
“Dad would always tell us, ‘This is an important job; we’re helping feed the world,’” Michael recalls. “Some people say farming is work – and it is, some days. But I like to also say it’s one of my favorite hobbies.” 
Michael and his fiancé, Kaley, enjoy golfing, going to Twins games and taking their pup for walks in a nearby state park. Kaley holds a Doctorate in physical therapy and practices home health in town and the surrounding communities. She also cares for residents at a local nursing home.
When he isn’t working or farming, Michael likes to fish and hunt – especially mule deer in the Badlands of N.D. Before joining Latham Seeds, Michael worked for a seed, chemical and fertilizer company. He says he was drawn to Latham because it is an independent, family-owned business with an experienced “support system.”
“Being able to have direct access to the owners of the company is a huge benefit for someone in my shoes,” Michael says. “It gives me a sense of comfort knowing I have so many people in my corner.”
Here is a favorite Poppen family recipe that can feed a crowd.