Shay Benzel, a proud California native, grew up on her family’s farm in Dixon, where her love for agriculture was cultivated among the corn, sunflowers, tomatoes, and a cow/calf operation. With agriculture deeply rooted in her background, Shay pursued a degree in agriculture business at CSU Chico.

Her path to Heritage was paved with hands-on experience during her internship at the Shasta Livestock Auction Yard and her tenure at the Butte County Farm Bureau. These roles honed her skills and prepared her well for her current position as a farm team member and agribusiness account specialist at Heritage.

Now residing in Idaho Falls with her husband, Matt, who works with Simplot Growers Solutions, Shay remains actively involved with the Young Farmers and Ranchers in East Idaho and maintains her membership with the Tehama County Cattlewomen’s. In her spare time, Shay and her family explore the natural beauty of Idaho, hiking and savoring the great outdoors before the snow blankets the ground. The couple has recently expanded their family, welcoming a daughter into their lives.

Despite her busy schedule, she makes it a point to return to the main office quarterly, enjoying the Heritage camaraderie and reconnecting with family and friends.