New market development specialist joins WGC
The Washington Grain Commission (WGC) is pleased to announce Jake Liening joined the commission staff as a market development specialist on September 16. Liening has a strong background in the grain industry, including experience in farming operations, strategic planning, and market analysis.
“We are thrilled to welcome Jake to our team. His agricultural roots and fresh perspective make him an excellent fit for the Washington Grain Commission. We are confident that his experience and skills will enhance our ability to provide valuable information and services to our overseas customers, ultimately benefiting Washington grain producers,” said WGC CEO Casey Chumrau.
The new WGC market development specialist will support the commission’s mission in expanding market opportunities for Washington grain, particularly in international markets. They will be responsible for data reporting and analysis, and coordinating crop quality testing, as well as supporting trade team activities, content creation, and industry engagement.
Liening earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Whitworth University, where he concentrated in economics and was a member of the Omicron Delta Epsilon Economic Honors Society. Prior to coming to the WGC, Liening served as a Pacific Northwest land manager for Peoples Company, which is a firm that provides land brokerage, agricultural appraisal, land and energy management, crop insurance, and capital market services. Prior to that Liening served as an analyst at Root Agricultural Advisory in Boise, Idaho. This company provides real estate transaction advisory, farm management, and consulting services.
Liening is from Walla Walla, Wash., where his family grows grass seed, alfalfa, dry peas, and seed corn. He is a licensed real estate broker in Oregon and Washington, and is also serves in the Washington Air National Guard as a crew chief within the 141st Aircraft Maintenance Squadron.
“I am confident that my prior work history within the farming world has equipped me with the insights and perspective needed to excel in this role. I am excited to continue working for the growers and producers in Washington state,” Liening said.