Coming from dairy and beef background in Northumberland county, Steve completed a Masters in Ag Economics from the University of Guelph in 1996 focusing on trade liberalization in dairy between the US and Canada. After a year as policy researcher for the Ontario Milk Marketing Board, Steve joined OMAFRA in late 1997. For 15 years, Steve was OMAFRA’s lead on business risk management programs such as AgriStability and the Risk Management Program. Steve is currently OMAFRA’s Chief Economist. Steve is also an adjunct professor in agricultural economics at the University of Guelph. Steve and his wife Robyn also operate a beef and cash crop operation near Colborne Ontario. Steve is currently in his second term on the board of Farm Management Canada as a farmer director and is currently board Chair.