Get To Know Genex Independent Contractor, Adrienne Lulay

The Genex beef team is in the thick of spring breeding, but a couple of our Independent Contractors took a few precious moments to answer some questions for me. I have really enjoyed getting to know them a little better and hope you do too!

Today Adrienne Lulay shared a little about herself.


I live in the Willamette Valley on the west side of Oregon where my husband, Paul, and I grew up. We have two boys, ages 4 and 7, who keep our floor continuously littered with LEGOs, when they are not outside covered in dirt. I earned my undergraduate degree in animal science at Oregon State University (OSU) as well as a master's in reproductive physiology. Now I teach applied reproduction at OSU in the fall and a calving class in the winter. I also organize and teach three artificial insemination (A.I.) schools, held at the university, that are open to producers. That leaves spring and summer for breeding cows! My customers are very diverse from backyard milkers to Scottish Highlanders to large herds of Angus. I myself keep a handful of Simmentals.

What made you decide to become a Genex Independent Contractor (IC)? A Genex IC was retiring. He recruited me to take over his area. He sold me on the benefits of being an IC with a great company like Genex. Just having the ability to be an independent contractor was what really drew me to the company. With two young boys, my own cows and teaching, I enjoy the flexibility it gives me.

What is the most difficult part of being an IC?  Paper work! I would rather be out with the cows, but paper work is necessary to keep it all going.

Do you have a memorable or rewarding story you would like to share from your time as an IC?

It was nerve-wracking the first time I helped with a large breeding project. I had just begun my IC endeavor, and it was actually the first time I met my manager, Morgan Johnsrud, in person. We had about 700 heifers to breed that day and there was already an army of people assembled when I arrived. Two double breeding barns were being set up and soon the project began. I was thrown into a barn with one of the most efficient breeders I have met (Deven Thompson), and was quickly told the rules of the breeding barn; clean hand here, dirty hand there. No please or thank yous (there wasn't time). We flew through those heifers. It was very exciting! Evidently I did okay because I was invited back. Now I look forward to those types of projects like it's a vacation. It is fun to work with such a great team and environment; no staring out of office windows here!

Who is your go-to Genex sire and why? 1AN01240 EFFECTIVE, he is efficient, docile and offers calving ease with good marbling! Although, I am interested to see how 1AN01282 OPTIMUM matures with his great docility, marbling and positive $EN.

What is your favorite cut of beef? Filet Mignon