We’re excited to announce important changes in our leadership team. While change can feel uncertain at times, we’re confident these transitions will do nothing but assist Crop Quest in our continued success and growth.
Leadership Transition
Effective July 1, 2024, Kevin Hecht assumed the role of President of Crop Quest. Kevin has been with Crop Quest for many [14] years and will be moving from Ulysses to Dodge City, KS.
Dwight Koops has served as our President for the last 11 years, succeeding past leadership – Ron O’Hanlon and Rollie Stukenholtz. Dwight helped establish Crop Quest in 1992 as Vice President. He will now step into the role of CEO, continuing to guide us with his deep commitment and vision, supporting Kevin as he takes on his new role.
Dwight’s Retirement
“As in any organization, change is necessary. One thing is certain, we cannot stop time,” Dwight points out. His future is bright as he begins to look toward retirement at the end of 2025.
Dwight shares, “As I near retirement, our company looks forward to new leadership. I and our Board of Directors are confident that Kevin and our supporting team members will do an outstanding job taking the company into the future. We are blessed as a company to have a great group of vibrant leaders that understand the importance of bringing innovative and unbiased information to our growers,” he comments.
He continues, “With our new leadership, we will remain committed to that mission. I am happy to pass Crop Quest into the hands of these capable leaders and look forward to seeing where we can participate in moving agriculture forward to feed a hungry world.”
An Early Beginning
Although Kevin’s role as the company President is new, he has had a lifelong connection with Crop Quest. Growing up with the company – his father John Hecht, a charter member and current Employee Owner – Kevin has known agronomy his entire life.
Kevin’s official employment with Crop Quest started as an Agronomy Intern in Central Kansas. After college, Kevin joined Crop Quest as an Agronomist and later transitioned to a Precision Ag Specialist. His passion for serving farmers in both agronomy and technology is unwavering. His career reflects our commitment to developing talent from within and fostering a culture of growth and opportunity. “I am excited to have the opportunity to work more closely with our leaders in Crop Quest to see where we can take the company. We have an amazing team, and I am honored to be able to represent them as the new President” he comments.
Looking Ahead
Like many of our farmers and their operations, this next generation is responsible for driving the company forward, building on the solid foundation we have now. Every Crop Quest Employee is an Employee-Owner, and we all share a passion for our mission. We are excited about this change as it allows us to keep serving the best people in the world – our farmers and customers. Thank you for your continued support and trust in us.