Jess is responsible for directing and managing the NGFA’s wide-ranging operations programs for grain elevators, feed mills, and grain processing plants. 

This includes NGFA’s activities regarding employee safety and industrial health, environmental issues, grain-handling facility design and equipment, grain inspection and weighing issues, grain and feed quality, crop technology, trade, and agroterrorism/facility security-related issues.  

Jess also serves as Chairman of the Department of Homeland Security, Food and Drug Administration, and the US Department of Agriculture’s Food and Agriculture Sector Coordinating Council and represents NGFA on the USDA’s Agricultural Trade Advisory Committee for Trade in Grains, Feed, Oilseeds, and Planting Seeds.  The Journal of Agromedicine selected Jess as its 2021 “Leader in the Field.” The annual award is for those who have made significant contributions in agricultural safety and health practice, policy, and research.

Jess received his undergraduate degree from Texas A&M University and his M.A. from George Washington University.