Interests

Outreach Program Strategy, Food Marketing, Direct/Local Marketing, Rural Retailing, Technology Adoption, Horticulture, Agricultural Outlook, Policy - Marketing; Niche Food Markets; Information Technology adoption & management; Horticulture marketing/economics; Audience/Market assessment

Biographical Info

Stan Ernst plays two roles in the Department: (1) Outreach Program Manager and (2) Specialist on Marketing; Information Technology Adoption in Food and Agricultural Industries; and niche food markets. As Outreach Program Manager, he develops strategies, programs, and educational products that enhance department economic outreach, research, and teaching programs. And he trains faculty, staff and students in marketing communication techniques. Ernst directs the Department's Policy & Outlook Program and other major Outreach and Extension programs; and serves as departmental contact on Extension-related issues. On the research and outreach side, Ernst studies marketing and the use of information technology and e-business practices within food and agricultural industries. He provides data, reports and educational programs in these areas to OSU and academic and industry leaders. Current major projects relate to drivers of consumer demand for local foods, direct marketing channel options, rural retailing trends, and horticulture economics. Other significant applied research and Extension educational efforts are in food market niches emerging from changing demographics, direct marketing strategies, and meat marketing. Ernst also teaches marketing to undergraduates. He joined the department in 1999 after four years in administration at North Dakota State and 10 prior years at Ohio State.