The Oxford Dictionary defines transformation as “a thorough or dramatic change in form or appearance.” During our recent visit to Southside Virginia, transformation—and transformative mindsets—were the underlying themes at every stop. The ability to recognize a changing industrial landscape and adjust the direction or thought process of a facility to maximize outcomes is an extraordinary… Continue reading Transformation
The Oxford Dictionary defines sustainability in two ways: the ability to continue over time, and the ability to cause little or no environmental damage—thus enabling long-term continuation. Class VII's regional US trip was a resounding example of these two definitions. After spending six days on the road—starting in Winchester, traveling through the Finger Lakes Region… Continue reading Sustainability
The Collins Dictionary defines adaptable as the ability to change ideas or behavior in order to deal with new situations. After the VALOR Class VII's visit to the Northern Neck, this definition perfectly describes agriculture in the region. Our class was hosted by multiple industry innovators who, rather than conforming to the norm, adapted their operations to… Continue reading Adaptable
The Oxford Dictionary defines “resilience” as the capacity to withstand or recover from difficulties. After our recent trip to Southwest Virginia, the definition of “resilience” is embodied by the people who make up this area. After being hit by one of the most devastating hurricanes to make landfall in the US in September 2024, the… Continue reading Resilience
Twice is a coincidence, three times is a pattern. VALOR class VII seems to be in a pattern of weather events. Session I concluded during Hurricane Helene. Session II involved gale force winds. Session III started with a snowstorm causing a boil water advisory for the entire Richmond area. Despite these challenges, our class has… Continue reading The Weather Strikes Again
Our recent class visit to Tidewater and the Eastern Shore of Virginia highlighted some decisions in our Agriculture Industry. These decisions aren't for immediate results. Instead, they focus on the futures of the companies involved. Our visit included many amazing experiences, that a Northern Shenandoah Valley agriculturalist was amazed to see the diversity throughout our… Continue reading Thinking about Tomorrow
Hello everyone, I am Todd Legge from the metropolis of Middletown, VA, a small one-stoplight town 20 miles south of Winchester. I currently work for Darling Ingredients, Inc., based in Irving, TX, as a Finished Goods Sales Representative covering the eastern US. Darling Ingredients, Inc. is the world’s largest rendering company, with over 260 locations… Continue reading A Journey from Farm to Leadership
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