2025 Board of Directors Nominees

The Irrigation Association has announced the following three nominees to serve on the IA Board of Directors. These individuals’ terms would begin at the conclusion of the 2025 Irrigation Show and Education Week. Directors are elected to three-year terms, and they work to establish the association’s strategic direction, policies and programs. Ballots will be sent to designated IA voting contacts the first week of August 2025 with results announced prior to the 2025 Irrigation Show and Education Week.

Tyler Fields

Sr. Director - Global Water Delivery 
Valmont Industries, Inc.

“The Irrigation Association should be the leading voice in irrigation, across both landscape and agriculture. As the current Chair of the Advocacy – Agriculture Advisory Group, I’ve seen firsthand how competitors and sectors can unite to advocate for irrigation with real results—like influencing regulatory change on Capitol Hill. Consistent, visible advocacy is essential to maintaining the IA’s authority and impact. I’m committed to building strong relationships across industries and with political allies to ensure irrigation stays at the forefront of policy conversations. My goal is to strengthen IA’s role as the trusted, go-to resource in all things irrigation.”

Jonathan Lauer, CIC, CLIA

CEO
Pro Outdoor

“A trade association board should act as a strategic compass, fiduciary steward and ambassador for its mission. As a board member, I see three core responsibilities: setting strategic priorities grounded in industry insight and member feedback; upholding financial and operational discipline to ensure long-term sustainability; and advancing the IA’s brand and voice with regulators, partners, and the industry. I bring deep experience working with boards—both corporate and private equity—where I’ve learned to contribute constructively, challenge respectfully and focus on outcomes. I’m committed to helping the IA navigate change while staying aligned with its values and delivering meaningful member value.”

A.J. van de Ven

President and CEO
Calsense

“A trade association board must balance long-term vision with the evolving needs of its members - setting strategy, ensuring strong governance and amplifying the industry's voice. I see the Irrigation Association Board as a platform to unify perspectives and elevate the role of water management in today’s environmental and economic landscape. My role as CEO of Calsense and nonprofit board experience has shaped my ability to align mission with market realities. At the IA, I will bring strategic focus, operational discipline and a collaborative spirit to help the organization lead with purpose and create lasting value to its members.”