Ben Sklarczyk Elected 2026 National Potato Council President

Key Highlights

Ben Sklarczyk elected 2026 President of NPC
Third-generation grower from Michigan
Long-time board member with past leadership roles
Focus on trade, nutrition policy and grower advocacy

The National Potato Council has elected Ben Sklarczyk as its President for 2026. The decision was made during the NPC Washington Summit and confirmed at the Annual Meeting of Voting Delegates on February 23. Sklarczyk will serve for the next 12 months.

A Grower with Deep Roots

Sklarczyk is a third-generation potato grower from Johannesburg, Michigan. He owns Sklarczyk Seed Farm, a hydroponic seed potato business in his hometown. He took full ownership of the farm ten years ago with his wife, Alison, purchasing it from his father, Don Sklarczyk, who also served as NPC President in 2007.

Although he grew up working on the farm, Sklarczyk first studied mechanical engineering at Western Michigan University. After his first semester, he shifted focus and transferred to Michigan State University, earning a degree in agriculture in 2003.

Follow our WhatsApp Channel

Years of Industry Service

Sklarczyk has been active with NPC since the early 2000s and joined its Board of Directors in 2010. Over nearly a decade on the Executive Committee, he held several roles, including First Vice President and Vice President positions covering finance, environmental affairs, grower outreach and industry research.

As President, he plans to focus on federal dietary guidelines, global trade fairness for U.S. potatoes and removal of trade barriers. He also stressed the need for growers to stay involved with state and federal lawmakers so the industry’s voice is heard.

Also read: Idaho Potatoes vs Russet Potatoes – What’s the Real Difference?

Leadership Team for 2026

The 2026 Executive Committee includes leaders from major potato-growing states such as Idaho, Washington, Oregon and North Dakota. The Immediate Past President is Ted Tschirky of Pasco, Washington.

NPC represents U.S. potato growers in Washington, D.C., addressing policy matters debated in Congress and rules proposed by federal agencies.

Summit Focus

The 2026 NPC Washington Summit took place from February 23–26. Growers and industry members met with Members of Congress and the administration. Topics included keeping potatoes in federal nutrition programs, supporting fair-trade agreements and funding research to protect long-term industry health.

With years of leadership experience and a family history in the sector, Sklarczyk now steps into the top role at NPC. His focus will center on trade, policy and keeping potatoes strong in the U.S. market.