Executive Biographies

Tom has more than 20 years of experience in engineering and agriculture. He oversees the development of DICKEY-john products from concept through implementation. Tom continues to inspire his team of engineers to create new and increasingly advanced electronics to aid in the application, analysis, and streamlining of products for both the agricultural and public works markets. He also personally farms more than 1,000 acres and uses his operation and knowledge to provide a hands-on, real-world approach to agricultural electronics development. Tom has served as a member of the Executive Management Team since 1998.

Prior to his experience with DICKEY-john Corporation, Tom served in numerous capacities including Lead Systems Electronics Engineer for Alliant TechSystems Incorporated and Lead Electronics Program Engineer, Program Manager, and Lead Digital Design Engineer for Honeywell. Tom earned a BS in electronics engineering from DeVry Institute of Technology, Chicago.

Bruce has more than 30 years of experience in the manufacturing/industrial sector. His career highlights include forming a Management Information Systems Group, establishing a strategic direction for the Enterprise System, managing multiple business process responsibilities, and leading special projects. Bruce has served as a member of the Executive Management Team since 1998 and contributes to the overall direction of the company.

Prior to his experience with DICKEY-john Corporation, Bruce served in numerous capacities including Business Analyst, Industrial Engineer, Sales, and Transitioning Acquisitions for Sangamo Electric Company, Flesh Company, and Four Squires Buying Group. Bruce earned a BBA from Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, and a BBA in management from the University of Illinois, Springfield. He also conducted post-graduate work at Northern Illinois University, DeKalb.

Jeff has more than 15 years of experience in physics, engineering, quality, and process improvement. He is responsible for the organization and oversight of DICKEY-john Corporation´s production force. He works to ensure the continuous process improvement of key manufacturing processes and is responsible for implementing flow-manufacturing techniques. Jeff has been a member of the Executive Management Team since 2001.

Prior to joining DICKEY-john Corporation in 1995, Jeff served in several capacities including Physicist and Quality Engineer as a civilian employee for the United States Navy in Virginia and Indiana. Jeff earned a BS in physics from Illinois State University, Normal, and earned ASC certifications in Quality Engineering, Reliability Engineering, and Quality Management. He received an MBA from the University of Illinois, Springfield.

Karen has more than 20 years of experience in financial management. She is responsible for the general accounting and control of DICKEY-john Corporation´s budget and finances. Karen was promoted to the Controller´s position and joined the Executive Management Team in 2001.

Prior to joining DICKEY-john Corporation, Karen served in numerous capacities including Associate Director of Budgeting and Accounts Payable for Franklin Life Insurance, Manager of International Finance for Tenneco Automotive, Manager of Financial Reporting for Walker Manufacturing, and Plant Controller for Walker Manufacturing. Karen earned a BS in accountancy from Northern Illinois University, Dekalb, and is a CPA.

Chris is responsible for all marketing and sales business development activities for DICKEY-john and is a key player in charting the future strategy of the company. He has served as a member of the Executive Management Team since 2003.

Prior to joining DICKEY-john, Chris was the Vice President & General Manager for YSI Incorporated, Vice President of Marketing and Business Development for Greenlee Textron, and also held management positions with Applied Power and Kohler Company. He earned a BBA at Texas Christian University, Fort Worth, and an MBA through the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor. He also completed executive education at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia.