Gerald Timmerman, a Nebraska cattleman, has built a successful career in the cattle feeding industry through hard work, humility, and dedication to quality. Born and raised in Springfield, Nebraska, Timmerman left school early to pursue cowboy work in Texas. In his late twenties, he and his brothers took over their family’s feedyard, building the business without financial assistance from their father. Their work ethic and commitment led them to work seven days a week for nearly a decade.
Timmerman’s innovative approach and focus on consumer demands earned him the 2018 Feeding Quality Forum (FQF) Industry Achievement Award. He credits his success to listening to mentors and embracing new technologies. His feedyard operations have expanded across multiple states, with ranches in Nebraska, South Dakota, Colorado, and Texas.
A believer in producing what consumers want, Timmerman praises initiatives like the Certified Angus Beef brand for revolutionizing the industry by prioritizing consistency and quality. His practical mindset leads him to explore new tools, like drones and satellites, to enhance ranch efficiency.
Family is central to Timmerman’s life. Married to Lynn for more than 50 years, they raised five children and now have five grandchildren, some of whom work in the feedyard. Timmerman’s dedication extends beyond business; he prioritizes gathering family for events, emphasizing the importance of family ties and long-term employee relationships.