Director of Farm Operations

 

The Fresno State University Agricultural Laboratory welcomed Britton Willson in September 2026 to oversee one of the nation's leading college farms, which is committed to innovation, education, outreach, and industry partnerships. 

The Sanger native has more than 20 years of prior experience managing fiscally sound, large-scale and diversified farming operations in the nation’s leading agricultural area, as well as their budgets, equipment, research support, and staff. 

His background additionally reflects expertise in integrating innovative technology into agricultural operations, which will help the 1,000-acre campus farm continue to modernize and enhance its 18 units.

Most recently, his BW Ag Consulting business helped Central Valley agricultural enterprises adopt precision ag technology such as telematics, enterprise resource planning, and generative AI to boost efficiency and profitability.

His most extensive prior experience came with the Morning Star Company, the world’s largest tomato processor. During his 11 years there, he helped lead its research and development, technology, and agricultural business operations.

He previously worked as a Senior Solutions Engineer and Professional Services Specialist for Teletrac Navman and its automated fleet management and telematics technologies. He also integrated new technology in previous positions with Pacific Ag Rentals and BEELINE Technologies.

“Britton brings extensive experience in large-scale farming, financial management, and agricultural technology to Fresno State,” said Dr. Rolston St. Hilaire, Dean of the Jordan College of Agricultural Sciences and Technology. “His expertise in agricultural technology will be particularly valuable as the Jordan College continues to modernize and enhance the efficiency, sustainability, and innovation of its farm operations.”

Willson graduated from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo with an agricultural engineering technology degree.

Britton is a proud, third-generation Central Valley agricultural family member. His grandfather was one of the pioneers who farmed on the west side of the San Joaquin Valley and was a proud Bulldog booster whose legacy includes helping to build Valley Children’s Stadium on campus. 

“I’m particularly looking forward to connecting some of the technologies and manufacturers that I’ve worked with to the Fresno State campus farm and collaborating with faculty and staff to keep the UAL on the leading edge of ag technology,” Willson said.

Among his other professional and personal interests, Britton served as a volunteer pilot and observer for the Yolo County Sheriff and was a flight instructor while he and his family lived there. 

He and his wife, Rhonda (who also works on campus in Procurement and Support Services), recently moved to the Coarsegold area where they take every opportunity to enjoy their home, family, community, and the beauty of the mountains that surround them.