by Jackie Atkins, PhD
Wade is an inspiring leader and thought influencer. To write this speech was a joy to reflect on his career with ASA and IGS and his unique philosophy of blending science, integrity, and always focusing on the higher meaning to serve the commercial beef industry. He is a model thinker, leader, friend, and human.
It is my honor to present the 2025 BIF Pioneer Award to Dr. Wade Shafer — who, by the way, hates being called “doctor,” which gives you a small glimpse into his humble nature.
The word pioneer fits Wade perfectly. A pioneer is someone who sees potential, an innovator who’s willing to try new things, someone who pushes boundaries to advance a cause. That’s Wade, through and through — a career defined by innovation, uncommon collaboration, and unwavering service to the beef industry.
Wade joined the American Simmental Association in 2003, bringing with him a PhD from Colorado State under Dr. Richard Bourdon, and years of practical experience building economic selection indexes for his own herd. He went on to lead the development of two whole-life-cycle
indexes, launched a whole-herd reporting system, and brought ASA’s genetic evaluation into the genomic era.
In 2010, Wade teamed up with Greg Comstock from Red Angus to launch what would become International Genetic Solutions. At the time, breed associations competed — they didn’t share data. But Wade saw a bigger picture. By 2025, that “experiment” now includes over 23 million animals from 23 breed organizations — the largest genetic evaluation system in the world.
Wade has never been a breed centricist. In an industry where breeds were often divided by superficial traits like coat color or horns, Wade believed in science over ego. His focus was always on improving genetics across the entire industry.
In 2013, Wade became Executive Vice President of ASA. He led as a guide, a creator, and yes, a challenger. Under his leadership, ASA’s revenue doubled, its assets tripled, and its generosity grew — returning $250,000 to members during COVID and over a million dollars in trait collection and DNA incentives — while remaining profitable every single year.
He built a powerhouse team dedicated to serving commercial cattle producers. He defended independent genetic evaluation in a patent challenge, held the line on the integrity of EPD and indexes, and constantly chose the path that best served the industry, not himself.
From Kathy Shafer: “In a world that often rewards flash, Wade has always stood for substance. His quiet integrity and sharp intellect have shaped not only the cattle industry, but the people and programs that support it. His leadership never sought the spotlight, yet his impact is unmistakable.
Right: Luke Bowman takes a photo with (L–R): Dr. Jackie Atkins, Dr. Wade Shafer, Kathy Shafer, Jacki and Steve McGuire, and Lauren Hyde. Below, left: Luke Bowman and Dr. Wade Shafer. Below, right: Dr. Wade Shafer doing his part at a recent AJSA National Classic.
Wade has been a compass — steady, principled, and driven by a deep sense of service to the beef industry and the people within it. He brings humility to high places. His vision is broad, and his door is always open.”
“He brings humility to high places. His vision is broad, and his door is always open.”
And from Chip Kemp, “The most effective thought leaders I’ve known have a calm, clear sense of purpose that results in a big, bold vision that can be articulated in a humble and direct manner. That’s Wade.”
When we asked others to describe “essential Wade,” here’s what came back: Visionary. Humble. Optimistic. Principled. Persistent. Generous. Calm. Funny. Always supports his team. Chooses impact over attention. Welcomes people. Studies people. Stands for what matters. And yes… someone did say “a-hole” — lovingly, of course. Wade, thank you for your vision. For your mentorship. For the courage to fight the right battles. And for showing all of us what real leadership looks like. You are, without question, a pioneer. .
