Cobb Retiree Recalls Early Days in Arkansas
US - Bobby Highfill, described as a 'role model' to many of his colleagues at Cobb-Vantress and Tyson Foods, has retired after 42 years with the two companies.
21 June 2011
3 minute read
By: At a party held at the Cobb headquarters at Siloam Springs, Arkansas, where he has worked most recently as a production planning manager, senior colleagues spoke of Bobby Highfill's contribution to the Cobb in the US from the early days of Arkansas Breeders and Cobb-Vantress in the 1980s.
Dr John Hardiman, chief scientific officer, said: "Bobby had many hats in those days since we had very few employees. One of the jobs was planning the production pipeline to fit the needs of the research and development for the Cobb500 product. But it wasn't just the amount of work that made Bobby special – it was how thoroughly and accurately he did every job and how he supported R&D in each of our efforts. Bobby was a cornerstone for the Cobb company that we all enjoy today."
Chet Hobart expressed his appreciation for Mr Highfill's dedication and commitment that had left a lasting mark on the company.
Jerry Moye, president of Cobb, remembered coming to the company from the poultry industry and told how Mr Highfill helped him to learn the business.
He said: "I was one of those Dr Hardiman spoke about earlier that Bobby had to teach about the production pipeline. We appreciate his long-time service and commitment to the company."
He presented Bobby with a crystal memento inscribed 'In grateful appreciation for 42 years of outstanding service and dedication. Your inspiration and example as a Cobb team member and role model will forever be remembered. From all your friends at Cobb-Vantress, Inc.'
Mr Highfill's wife, Elizabeth, was also with him at the retirement party and listened as he spoke about their plans for the future.
"We plan to do some travelling and some Christian mission work in the coming years," he said.
