Source: American Seed Trade Association news release
Alexandria, VA --â?¯The American Seed Trade Association (ASTA) welcomes Brandon Pachman as the organization's new Director, Government Affairs. Pachman joins ASTA from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)'s Food Safety and Inspection Service, where he served as a Legislative Analyst.
Prior to his time with the USDA, he was on the staff of former Chairwoman Debbie Stabenow (D-Michigan) as a Policy Analyst and Staff Assistant on the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry. He has also worked for former Committee Chairman Patrick Leahy (D-Vermont) and current Committee Ranking Member Amy Klobuchar (D-Minnesota). Pachman's background in politics includes a stint at a campaign finance firm.
"Under a new Administration and Congress, the ASTA team has been busy advocating on behalf of our diverse member companies in Washington, D.C., our state capitals, and around the world," said Andy LaVigne, President & CEO of ASTA. "Brandon's broad experience will provide our members with critical information on the changing Washington landscape and ensure the voice of the American seed industry is represented. We're excited to have Brandon join our team to bolster our advocacy and policy efforts."
Pachman is a New York native. He holds a Master of Arts degree in history, as well as Bachelor of Arts degrees in European languages and history, from the University of Rochester. In his new role at ASTA, he will work with Vice President, Government Affairs Janae Brady on the association's federal government affairs efforts, representing nearly 700 member companies and their policy interests.
"I am excited to join ASTA and its extraordinary team. Throughout my career, I have been fortunate to serve American agriculture both in Congress and at USDA," said Pachman. "I look forward to continuing that work in this capacity and advocate for ASTA's member companies in the pursuit of sound, responsible federal policies that will empower the seed industry to overcome regulatory challenges and economic headwinds."
About ASTA
Founded in 1883, the American Seed Trade Association (ASTA) represents nearly 700 companies involved in seed production, plant breeding and related industries in North America. ASTA is the leading voice of action in all matters concerning the development, marketing and movement of seed, associated products and services throughout the world. The association's broad membership offers varieties from alfalfa to zucchini and all production types including conventional, organic and biotech. ASTA promotes the development of better seed to produce better crops for a better quality of life. Visit www.betterseed.org to learn more.