EAGLE, ID - After nearly 17 years with the Idaho Potato Commission and over 50 years in the food industry, Armand Lobato has retired, closing an impressive chapter in a long and accomplished career. Known for his dedication, humility, and genuine relationships, Armand continues to have a lasting presence among growers, commissioners, colleagues, and friends.

Armand began his career in 1974 as a courtesy clerk in Denver, Colorado. From those early days, he steadily advanced through retail and foodservice before joining the IPC as Foodservice Promotions Director West. In that role, he traveled across 14 western states visiting distributors, restaurants, culinary schools, and processors while sharing his well-known love of dad jokes.

Reflecting on his time with the IPC, Armand said in the recent release, “It has been a privilege to work and travel for the IPC. I will miss the growers, commissioners, teammates, and friends I made along the way. I am just an ordinary guy working in an extraordinary industry.” This deep appreciation made his contributions especially meaningful.

Along the way, Armand earned undergraduate and graduate degrees and wrote a weekly column for The Packer and other agribusiness publications for nearly 20 years. He became known for his sharp industry insight, storytelling, and respect for Idaho’s growers and shippers.

Armand looks forward to spending more time with his wife Michelle, their two grown children, and three grandsons. He also plans to continue writing and hopes to teach journalism or creative writing in the near future.

“It’s been a remarkable ride, one I recommend highly,” Armand said. “It is my hope that someday, someone will open a carton of fresh Idaho potatoes and say, ‘You know, I had a good friend that worked there, years ago.’”

“Armand has been a vital part of the Idaho Potato Commission,” said Jamey Higham, President and CEO of the IPC. “His passion for the industry, his storytelling, and yes, even his love of dad jokes, have made him a cherished member of our team. We will truly miss working alongside him and wish him all the best in this exciting new chapter.”