CALS Agricultural Research Stations (ARS) recently honored three individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the ARS program at its annual Recognition Awards Reception on Jan. 14.

This year’s award recipients are:

• Tom Crenshaw, Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences – Recognition Award for Research
• Kevin Depies, Ritchie Implement – Recognition Award for Service
• Troy Fishler, Hancock Agricultural Research Station – Recognition Award for ARS Staff

Tom Crenshaw – Recognition Award for Research

Tom Crenshaw is a professor in the Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences and focuses on swine nutrition. In his years at UW–Madison, he has had a big impact on the college and the Arlington Agricultural Research Station. Crenshaw was instrumental in getting the Swine Research and Teaching Center designed and built in 1983 and rebuilt in 1998. He has also served on the ARS committee and has been the chair of the Feed Mill Committee since its inception in 2013. 

An expert on bone integrity and the cation-anion balance, Crenshaw’s research requires the integration of biochemical, physiological and cellular pathways with inorganic chemistry and mechanical engineering principles. He teaches classes in comparative nutrition, applied monogastic nutrition and livestock production and collaborates with researchers in mechanical engineering, orthopedic surgery, urology, human nutrition and biochemistry. Crenshaw has also done work on breeding and reproduction, gene editing, biomedical models, animal behavior, biosecurity requirements for animal health, housing and ventilation requirements, and surgical procedures research.   

Kevin Depies – Recognition Award for Service

Kevin Depies works in agriculture sales for Ritchie Implement, a farm equipment distributor, where he also oversees the company’s $0 donor lease program with UW–Madison’s Agricultural Research Station network. Through the program, Depies works with the Dairy Forage Research Center, Lancaster ARS and West Madison ARS to provide tractors and other equipment. Through the years, he has worked closely with ARS staff and faculty to match their equipment needs with what the dealership can provide. As equipment pieces evolve through the years, he listens to ARS needs and provides thoughtful options to assist.

No matter the ag equipment market conditions, Depies provides tractors and other equipment through the lease program that help keep the stations functioning at a high level. The equipment program has provided great benefit for ARS since its beginning in 2010, allowing stations to utilize cutting-edge equipment while saving money on repairs and purchases. Ritchie Implement and Depies have been a strong part of the relationship since the beginning and will continue to be into the future.

Troy Fishler – Recognition Award for ARS Staff

Troy Fishler is the superintendent of the Hancock Agricultural Research Station where he oversees complex day-to-day operations, handles bustling field days, and engages in public tours and demonstration events. He maintains a calm demeanor under pressure, prioritizing tasks to ensure all responsibilities are completed with precision and making sure everyone has what they need to complete their tasks.

Fishler is a strong communicator and always approachable, creating an environment where everyone feels heard and understood. He has created cohesiveness within his team, transforming the work environment into a collaborative space. Fishler is also an out-of-the-box thinker who leads by example, not just delegating but empowering. By encouraging genuine buy-in, he fosters teamwork and ensures everyone is invested in the shared success. This leadership style, coupled with his dedication to professional development, has helped students, interns and staff members to growing under his guidance.