Poultry Science Association names executive director
Steve Olson joins the Poultry Science Association, bringing with him more than two decades of association management experience in the poultry industry.
Steve Olson, executive director of the Poultry Science Association
The Poultry Science Association has named Steve Olson executive director. Olson joined PSA on July 6, 2026, succeeding Don McIntyre, who has served as interim executive director since January 2026.
Olson brings more than two decades of association management experience in the poultry industry. He most recently served as chief executive officer and agricultural strategy consultant at Steve Olson Consulting LLC, where he has advised agricultural organizations on strategic planning since 2019.
For nearly 19 years, Olson served as executive director of the Minnesota Turkey Growers Association, the Minnesota Turkey Research & Promotion Council, the Chicken & Egg Association of Minnesota and the Midwest Poultry Federation. Under his leadership, the Midwest Poultry Federation Convention more than doubled in size, growing into one of the 50 fastest-growing trade shows in the country and the largest US trade show dedicated entirely to poultry.
Earlier in his career, Olson served as a regional manager at the Agricultural Utilization Research Institute and as an agriculture program specialist with the Minnesota Department of Agriculture. He holds a bachelor’s degree in science from the University of Minnesota and is an alum of the Minnesota Agriculture and Rural Leadership program.
“We are excited to welcome Steve Olson to the role of executive director of PSA,” said Doug Korver, president of the Poultry Science Association. “Steve brings a long history of strategic thinking and leadership within the poultry industry to PSA. We look forward to using Steve’s creativity and initiative to continue to make the Poultry Science Association the world’s most respected resource for the poultry sciences.”
In his role at PSA, Olson will be responsible for the overall leadership, management and sustainability of the association in alignment with its mission, vision and board-approved strategic priorities.
“PSA has served as the recognized scientific authority for the poultry industry for 117 years, and the best is still ahead,” Olson said. “We are focused on connecting our science with the people in production working directly with birds, building professional development that serves scientists at every career stage, and leveraging a committed board and staff to grow PSA’s reach and impact. The foundation is strong. Let’s build.”
Outside of work, Olson believes the best leaders never stop growing, whether that means lacing up for a run, gathering around the table with family or investing in agriculture’s next generation. A lifelong FFA Alumni and Supporters member with more than 30 years of volunteer service, he remains deeply committed to the organization and the young people it develops. He is also a Farm Foundation Round Table fellow.
Source: Poultry Science Association
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