Gary Fike

Gary Fike is the County Extension Director for Riley County at Kansas State University, based in Manhattan, Kansas.1 He has held this position since March 2019, with over 5 years of experience in the role.1

Professional Background

Gary Fike has a diverse background in agriculture and extension services:

• He is responsible for overseeing the extension education program in Riley County, Kansas, which focuses on four major areas: agriculture, 4-H and youth development, family and consumer sciences, and community vitality.12
• His specific area of expertise within extension education is family resource management, including household budgets, debt reduction, and saving for emergencies and retirement.1
• Prior to his current role, Fike served as the Director of Commercial Marketing for the Red Angus Association of America from December 2014 to March 2019.1
• He has also worked as an Extension Associate for Quality Assurance at The Ohio State University and as an Area Extension Beef Specialist for Iowa State University.1

Education and Expertise

Gary Fike's educational background and areas of expertise include:

• A Bachelor of Science in Agriculture Education from Oklahoma Panhandle State University (1980-1983).1
• A Master of Science in Ruminant Nutrition from Kansas State University (1991-1993).1
• Extensive knowledge in beef production, particularly in carcass traits, management, and cattle marketing.1
• Certification as a Dave Ramsey Financial Coach, allowing him to teach classes on various financial topics.1

Additional Responsibilities

As County Extension Director, Gary Fike:

• Oversees seven staff members and manages a budget of over $800,000.1
• Communicates about programming efforts with decision-makers and works with volunteer boards.1
• Serves as a co-site coordinator for the IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program.1
• Focuses on rural revitalization programs, particularly rural entrepreneurship.1

Gary Fike's role at Kansas State University Extension combines his agricultural background with community education and financial management expertise, making him a valuable resource for Riley County residents.