Before his appointment to FAS, Yost served as Associate Administrator for USDA's Farm Service Agency (FSA). As the Associate Administrator for Programs, Mr. Yost was responsible for supervising and administering programs for conservation, disaster assistance, farm commodities and farm loans.

Prior to coming to USDA, Yost was President of Yost Farm, Incorporated, in Minnesota, where he produced corn, soybeans, spring wheat and alfalfa. As a fourth-generation farmer, he adapted to the latest changes in technology and business partnerships to enhance the farm's productivity for today and future generations.

Yost has held leadership positions with several commodity associations at the county and state levels. He was a member of USDA's Biotech Advisory Board, USDA/Department of Energy Biomass Advisory Board, and recently served two terms on the National Biodiesel Board. In this capacity, he took steps to expand the economic prospects and environmental promise of renewable energy by promoting clean, renewable, farm-based fuel and educating the public about the benefits of biodiesel to farmers, biodiesel producers, and rural communities throughout America.

From the mid-1990s to 2000, Yost was heavily involved with the American Soybean Association, where he held positions as Chairman, Vice-President, and President. As president, he worked to strengthen soybeans as a viable crop, ensured ongoing demand from food and feed processors, and promoted the development and use of U.S. soybeans and soy-based products.

A native of Murdock, Minnesota, Yost holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Agriculture Business Administration from the University of Minnesota.

He and his wife, Sandra, have two sons.

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