Updates from Profile Products & Felling Trailers: Green Industry Roll Call

Horticulture Expert Joins Profile Products as Technical Services Manager

Dr. Jim OwenProfile ProductsProfile Products has hired Dr. Jim Owen as technical services manager for its Profile Growing Solutions team. In this role, Owen will provide technical support to Profile’s grower and blender horticulture customers, serving as a subject matter expert on substrate selection, optimization and best management practices. He will also support research and development initiatives and product innovation.

“Jim has a deep understanding of horticultural systems and will be able to provide our customers with expert technical knowledge,” said Daniel Norden, director of product development for Profile Products. “His problem-solving mindset will not only help us continue delivering on proven solutions, but he will contribute to research and development that will ultimately improve crop performance and customer satisfaction.”

Owen has more than 25 years of experience in horticultural research and nursery and greenhouse production systems. He most recently served as a research horticulturist with the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Agricultural Research Service. He has also held academic appointments at Virginia Polytechnical Institute and State University and Oregon State University. During his career, he has conducted countless studies and published hundreds of articles that have advanced the horticulture industry in areas such as growing media physiochemical properties, plant nutrition, automation and remote sensing, plant physiology and water management.

Owen holds a Ph.D. in horticultural science from North Carolina State University, a master’s degree in environmental science from the University of Rhode Island, and a bachelor’s degree in plant and soil science from the University of Kentucky.

Felling Trailers Strengthens Sales Leadership Team

Nathan Uphus, Sales Director, Felling TrailersFelling TrailersFelling Trailers Inc. announced strategic changes to its sales leadership team, appointing Nathan Uphus as Director of Sales and promoting Jake Meyer to Sales Manager.

Nathan Uphus, a 25-year veteran of Felling Trailers, will focus on expanding the company's presence in fleet markets while overseeing key customer relationships. Throughout his 21-year tenure in trailer sales, Uphus has developed an extensive network of industry connections built on his reputation for exceptional customer service. "Nathan brings the perfect combination of industry knowledge, customer relationships, and strategic vision to grow Felling's footprint in the fleet markets," said Patrick Jennissen, VP of Sales and Marketing. "His leadership will be instrumental as we continue to meet and exceed the expectations of both new prospects and existing partners." Uphus expressed enthusiasm about his new role: "I am honored to step into the role of Director of Sales and lead our exceptional team into the next chapter of growth and innovation. Together, we will continue to build strong customer relationships, expand our market reach, and drive results that reflect our commitment to excellence.”

Jake Meyer, Sales Manager, Felling TrailersFelling TrailersJake Meyer, who has been with Felling's inside sales team since 2015, steps into the Sales Manager role where he will oversee daily team operations, implement training programs for new sales team members, and manage cross-departmental inquiries. "I am thrilled to congratulate Jake on his well-deserved promotion to Sales Manager. His dedication and proven track record in driving results make him an ideal fit for this role. I’m confident he will continue to make a significant impact as he takes on this new opportunity,” noted Uphus. Meyer added, “I am honored to have been selected for the sales manager role. I am excited to use the knowledge and experience I have gained throughout my tenure at Felling Trailers to assist our sales team as we continue to grow the Felling brand.“

Uphus and Meyer have built a strong foundation during their years with Felling Trailers. Both started on the production floor, learning the various aspects of the production process before transitioning to parts sales and eventually moving into trailer sales. These roles served as building blocks, contributing to a solid understanding of Felling's production capabilities and the numerous models offered. These leadership changes reflect Felling Trailers' commitment to recognizing talent and fostering growth within the organization while positioning the company for continued success in the competitive trailer manufacturing industry.