End of an era
Jul 11, 2018
IRVING, TX – Carl Brothers received a standing ovation from his peers yesterday at the USA Rice Business Meeting General Session where he was recognized for his contributions to the U.S. industry on the eve of his retirement from Riceland Foods after 53 years of service.
“Carl’s impact on the rice industry is so large, it is difficult to quantify, but I think it’s safe to say the USA Rice Federation would not exist as it does today, were it not for Carl’s passion, foresight, and vision,” said USA Rice President & CEO Betsy Ward in her remarks about Brothers.
Hired at Riceland in 1965 as a Sortex Operator, Brothers worked his way up to his present position as the company’s senior vice president and chief operating officer. Throughout his career, he has guided Riceland’s expansion in export markets, rice flour, rice bran oil, and many other areas with dedication and strong leadership.
Always taking an active role in the Rice Millers’ Association, Brothers served as the chairman in 1988 and again in 1997. In 1994, he was instrumental in bringing together all the U.S. rice organizations under the mantel of the USA Rice Federation, and served as the umbrella organization’s second chairman from 1996 to 1998.
Brothers’ expertise, experience, and insight have always been sought after. As a long-serving member of the Agriculture Policy Advisory Committee and the Agriculture Technical Advisory Committee, Carl advised several U.S. Secretaries of Agriculture on trade policy, provided technical advice on specific commodities and products, and conferred on the negotiations of free trade agreements to open markets in Mexico, Canada, Japan, Europe, Central America, and most recently Colombia. These agreements have led to millions of dollars in export business for the United States and millions of dollars for rice research.
The U.S. rice industry recognized Carl’s leadership in 2009 with the industry’s Life Time Achievement Award.
“The thing that stands out most to me about Carl’s long career is the way he carries himself, especially when he is representing the U.S. rice industry,” Ward said. “He is the embodiment of professionalism, civility, and class. I could always count on Carl for an honest opinion, a thorough analysis, or a practical solution. And I always found his advice invaluable.”
Ward said that although Brother’s 53-year Riceland career will end with his retirement at the end of July, his impact on the U.S. rice industry will continue for many years into the future.