Flathead Valley residents Marla Chappell, Tim McEntire, and Wes Gadwa recently returned from Bozeman as part of REAL Montana (Resource Education and Agriculture Leadership).This was the first of 10 seminars in their two-year educational program.

While in Bozeman, the class completed personality assessments, participated in a high ropes course, and received training on networking and building relationships. Class members participated in the first module in a series focused on fundamental competencies of growth mindset and professional etiquette with Scott Linklater. 

The class participated in an educational tour of Dry Hills Distillery focused on diversification and innovative ways to expand agriculture opportunities in an urban setting. Class members toured the Sales Ranch and Kimm Farms to discuss technology in agriculture and seed potato farming in the Gallatin Valley, and challenges and opportunities involving generational transfer of farms and farming practices. 

A seminar highlighted the program alumni at a networking banquet at the MSU Bobcat Stadium, where alumnus shared their experience and lessons learned during their tenure with REAL Montana. The banquet was attended by REAL Montana alumni, industry leaders, and program sponsors.

Gadwa and Chapelle are local Weyerhaeuser executives, while McIntire is a representative of the Montana Logging Association.