341 Millennium - Seventeenth Edition ENTREPRENEURS Joseph J. Konesky is an independent rancher specializing in registered black Simmental cattle. A family ranch since the 1930s, Konesky Simmental Ranch evolved into its current form in 1983 when Mr. Konesky decided to focus on thoughtful, selective breeding to create a strong herd of animals with ideal breed characteristics. His Simmental cattle have received many honors, including placement on the American Simmental Association’s Elite List of Cows and Dams of Distinction lists. He is a member of Allied Genetic Resources, the Montana Simmental Association and the American Simmental Association, and he is an active breed advocate and recognized expert in Simmental herds. While maintaining his ranch, Mr. Konesky attended Northern Montana College, earning a bachelor’s degree in technology and farm mechanics with a minor in animal science. As the owner of Konesky Simmental Ranch, he oversees all operations including herd enrollment and registration, farming of crops for animal feed, and sales of mature animals. Within five years, he hopes to focus on breeding and selling bulls, expanding on his current annual participation in the Bulls of the Big Sky sale. In addition to his success in ranching, Mr. Konesky has enjoyed a decadeslong career with the Federal Aviation Administration, where he has been an environmental support technician since 1989. He is responsible for building upkeep and maintenance for airports, including ensuring backup power sources and lighting systems, and building environmental control and HVAC systems for facilities. Mr. Konesky is a longtime 4-H volunteer and supporter, and he encourages youths and young adults to explore opportunities available to them. He recognizes the key role that his family played in helping him find professional success, and he advises others to remain committed to their goals, consistent in their efforts, and optimistic in the face of setbacks. Millennium Magazine Featured Listee JOSEPH J. KONESKY OWNER, OPERATOR, ENVIRONMENTAL SUPPORT TECHNICIAN Konesky Simmental Ranch, Federal Aviation Administration Sand Coulee, MT
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