Jess Peterson, the President of Western Skies Strategies (WSS), represents the United States Cattlemen’s Association (USCA) as its Executive Vice President. Peterson and the WSS staff provide USCA a full-time presence in Washington, DC and actively convey the interests of USCA to policymakers. Peterson also serves as a spokesperson for USCA and frequently appears on national media forums and industry panels regarding the interests of member ranchers and farmers.

As a 5th generation rancher and Montana native, Jess Peterson is familiar with the concerns of full-time ranchers. For the past seven years Peterson has successfully represented the interests of thousands of U.S. cattle producers on Capitol Hill and inside the Administration to ensure the industry maintains a competitive edge. Jess understands the need to listen to the voices of the countryside, and maintains the bi-weekly “Horn Wrap” conference call to facilitate active dialogue on issues affecting the U.S. cattle industry.

Mr. Peterson also manages a cow-calf operation near Miles City, Montana. Continually playing an active role in the management of the ranching operation keeps Peterson aware of the needs and importance of American agriculture and strong rural communities. Peterson is a proud alumnus of Miles Community College in Miles City, Montana, and of Gonzaga University in Spokane, Washington.

Peterson was recently recognized as one of Cattle Business Weekly’s Top 10 industry leaders Under 40 and named as one of Livestock Market Digest’s 25 individuals that is making a difference for the American livestock industry. He was also named as one of Washingtonian Magazine’s 40 under 40 lobbyists.