Austen began his career with Frontier Ag in December 2018 as Transportation Manager. In 2020, he moved to Colby to help open the new shop and office complex. By 2021, Austen transitioned into his current role as Department Head for Transportation, overseeing the company’s trucking operations and the truck shop.
Austen graduated from Goodland Vo-Tech in 2000 with a degree in Diesel Mechanics. His professional background spans diesel mechanics and trucking. He worked as a diesel mechanic for Central Detroit and Martin Tractor during a five-year period before spending 14 years with Colby Fertilizer/Nutrien Ag, where he gained hands-on experience across a variety of roles including farming, ranching, harvest crew, cattle, and truck driving. This broad base of experience prepared him well for his current leadership role, where he directs Frontier Ag’s transportation department and supports the company’s mission of reliable service across Northwest Kansas.
Austen and his wife Ashley live in Colby with their two sons. They are active in the community, supporting 4-H and the Thomas County Fair Board, where Austen serves as President. In addition, the family owns a local business and is dedicated to strengthening rural life through leadership, service, and active involvement.