John Allan

About…

John Allan is the Commercial Director for SQM North America and serves as Chair of the Western Region Certified Crop Advisers.

 John began his career in golf course maintenance, where he developed a strong interest in plant nutrition and pest management. That interest led him to pursue a B.S. in Plant Protection Science from Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo.

While at Cal Poly SLO, John was drawn to the diversity of commercial agriculture and shifted into crop advising. He obtained his Certified Crop Adviser (CCA) certification and spent many years in agricultural retail, working across a wide range of crops and growing regions. He later transitioned to the supplier and distribution side of the industry. In his current role with SQM North America, John has had the opportunity to broaden his agronomic perspective and work with plant nutrition and agricultural markets on a global scale.

Q+A:

Why should students strive to become a Certified Crop Adviser?

“A CCA certification demonstrates a commitment to your profession, continued agronomic education, and engagement with your peers in the agricultural community.

For students, pursuing the certification before or shortly after graduation can be especially valuable. The knowledge gained through your coursework is still fresh, putting you in a strong position to successfully complete the exams. As you begin your career, earning your CCA also shows potential employers that you have taken an extra step to invest in your profession and distinguish yourself from other candidates.

Agriculture needs knowledgeable, hardworking, and dedicated professionals. The CCA designation is a respected symbol of that commitment and of a genuine passion for our industry.”