A Dairy Genomics Pioneer: Dr. George Wiggans
How Data, Technology, and Teamwork Reshaped Genetic Progress in Dairy Cattle
Going back to growing up on a dairy farm and now fast-forwarding to genetic progress through genomics, Dr. George Wiggans reflects on a career that helped redefine how the dairy industry measures, predicts, and advances animal performance.
From the Farm to the Foundation of Modern Genetic Evaluations
Dr. Wiggans’ path into genetics was rooted in lived experience. Growing up on a dairy farm gave him practical insight that later shaped how he approached data and decision-making.
“Growing up on a dairy farm…that experience was actually useful in my profession, knowing what things are like on the ground.”
That real-world context helped bridge the gap between theory, technology, and application as genetic tools evolved.
Why Genomics Changed Everything
As genomics entered the picture, its impact was immediate and measurable. The ability to predict performance earlier fundamentally altered breeding decisions across the industry.
“Genomics sort of overwhelmed everything else we did because it had such a transformative effect on the work.”
By shortening generation intervals, genomics didn’t just improve accuracy. It accelerated progress.
“We didn’t necessarily improve more per generation. We just started having more generations.”
Trusting the Data and Earning Industry Adoption
Adoption didn’t happen by accident. It happened because the data proved itself, both on paper and in the barn.
“If you want to be competitive, you had to achieve the same rate of genetic gain that others were doing.”
As confidence grew, so did reliance on genomic evaluations to guide real-time breeding decisions.
A Career Defined by Impact and Collaboration
While Dr. Wiggans’ work reshaped the industry, he is quick to point to the teams behind the progress.
“I’ve been a beneficiary of working with a team that’s been highly productive and a pleasure to work with.”
That collaborative mindset helped drive innovations that continue to influence dairy genetics today.
Dr. George Wiggans’ career reflects what’s possible when practical dairy knowledge meets rigorous data, collaboration, and long-term thinking. His Pioneer Award recognition from the National Dairy Shrine honors not just a lifetime of work, but a legacy that continues to shape the future of dairy cattle genetics.
To hear the complete discussion with Dr. Wiggans, stream now on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, or watch the full conversation on YouTube.
