Bridging Science and Sustainability

In today’s spotlight, we are highlighting Jesse Trushenski, a leader who brings deep scientific expertise to the USTFA. While Jesse calls Montana home, her professional impact spans the Pacific Northwest as the Chief Science Officer for Riverence, the largest producer of farmed Rainbow Trout and Steelhead in the Americas.

The “Science-y Stuff” of Aquaculture

As CSO, Jesse oversees “broad responsibilities related to all of the ‘science-y stuff’ from R&D to routine operations.” Her role at Riverence – which also produces premium genetics and is the only commercial supplier of Atlantic and Coho Salmon eggs in the USA – is fundamentally about improvement and accessibility.

“As an applied scientist, I am responsible for helping find better ways to put fish on the table – to produce a better fish, to raise it sustainably and ethically, and to put wholesome seafood within everyone’s reach.”

Pride in the Process

Though she isn’t on the front lines of daily farm maintenance, Jesse finds deep meaning in the collective success of the trout farming community.

“Although I’m not the one monitoring water quality, sorting eggs, feeding fish, etc., every day, it gives me immense pride to know that my work supports those that do and that collectively we are feeding people and reducing pressure on shared aquatic resources.”

For Jesse, the impact of the industry is clear:

“Whether they are producing delicious, healthy food for the dinner table, creating fishing opportunities, or supporting fisheries conservation, the work that trout farmers do is worthwhile, meaningful work. I’m very happy to be a small part of that.”

Food as Love

When the lab coat comes off, Jesse heads to the kitchen. A “pretty decent cook,” she finds joy in the slow process of an elaborate meal as a way to care for those close to her.

“Food is love, and that’s how I care for my friends and family. There’s something extra-special about serving fish that you helped to raise, too.”

When she isn’t cooking or working, you can find her “puttering around at the pottery studio or in the garden.”

The 20-Minute Masterpiece

Jesse’s favorite preparation for trout is a family staple that balances gourmet flavor with real-world efficiency. Her husband’s frequent request? A versatile recipe that swaps salmon for trout and feels anything but ordinary.

“Trout fillets cook in a flash under the broiler, and the whole meal can be ready in less than 20 actual (not cookbook) minutes.”