Tom Olson of Calamus was announced as the 41st inductee into the Iowa Auctioneers Association’s (IAA) Hall of Fame during the organization’s annual convention February 6-7, 2009.
Olson, 59, has been working in the auction industry since his graduation from the Superior Auction School in Decatur, Illinois at the age of 19. In 1985 he joined GMB Auctions when one of the three members of the team retired. Norm Bousselot, one of the founding members, now works with Olson and Leroy Claussen. Olson is a long time member of the IAA, serving on the board of directors and as president in 2003.
Olson had the Grand Champion steer in the junior division at the 1964 American Royal Livestock Show in Kansas City. He started farming upon graduation from Calamus Community High School in 1967 and has raised beef cattle in addition to crops. With his wife Judy he continues to farm, and for the past 20 years he has driven a school bus for the Calamus-Wheatland Schools.
His activities have included participation in sports, including playing softball into his forties. He has served as a Little League coach, 4-H Club leader, Army Reserves, and council offices at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church.
His advice to anyone interested in becoming an auctioneer is to not be afraid to ask for advice and to work with an experienced auctioneer. He would also recommend joining the state and national auctioneers associations; personal and professional friendships can make a difference in your career.
As a young man Olson’s inspiration was Missouri auctioneer, Roy Johnston, one of the all-time great livestock auctioneers. Now Olson is in a position to be a role model for young men and women interested in auctioneering as a profession.
The Iowa Auctioneers Association congratulates Tom Olson on his years of service and leadership in the auctioneering industry, and in honored to announce him as the 41st Hall of Fame inductee. |
