Brockshus Named CEO/Manager of the Clay County Fair

Spencer, Iowa — The Clay County Fair Association has announced that Jason Brockshus will serve as the next CEO/Manager of the Clay County Fair & Events Center. Brockshus will succeed Jerome Hertel, who is retiring from the Fair after dedicating over 25 years of service to the fair industry.

Brockshus has been a key member of the Clay County Fair team since 2021, serving as the Partnerships Director. In that role, he worked closely with sponsors to enhance fair experiences, developed agricultural education initiatives, and coordinated the Clay County Fair Charitable Trust. His career spans leadership roles in farming, agribusiness, and agricultural education, including operating Brockshus Dairy LLC and serving as an agricultural education instructor and FFA advisor.

“We are excited to have Jason take on this role as CEO/Manager,” said Greg Lear, Chairman of the Clay County Fair Board of Directors. “His deep passion for agriculture, and leadership experience make him the perfect person to carry on the Fair’s traditions.”

Brockshus has also held leadership roles within the fair industry in organizations such as the International Association of Fairs and Expositions and the Iowa State Dairy Association. His connection to the fair industry began in his youth and has continued throughout his career, making him uniquely positioned to lead “The World’s Greatest County Fair” into the future.

“My goal as I step into this new position is to continue to be a good steward of the Fair,” said Brockshus. “Agricultural education is at the heart of every Fair, especially ours. I want to continue the traditions that so many people are passionate about while also exploring new and exciting ways to connect future generations to the Clay County Fair.”

With degrees in Dairy Science and Agricultural Education from Iowa State University, Brockshus has spent his career focused on agriculture and community involvement. That same commitment extends into his personal life—he and his wife, Sheena, have a wonderful family, including children and grandchildren. When he’s not at work, you’ll find him spending time with family and cheering them on at their activities.

Brockshus will officially begin his role as CEO/Manager on April 19, 2025.

About the Clay County Fair & Events Center – Rooted in Tradition, the Clay County Fair and Events Center is a year-round facility that hosts more than 300 events annually, including its signature event, the Clay County Fair, powered by SMU. Known as “The World’s Greatest County Fair” since 1917, the Fair attracts more than 300,000 guests each September for nine days of world-class entertainment, competition, food, fun, and the largest farm machinery show at any fair in the United States. For more information, visit claycountyfair.com.

 

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