Staff Bios Learn more about us
Marla Archer Accounts Payable/Receivable Specialist
Marie Archer is an experienced Accounts Payable/Receivable Specialist with a strong background in financial operations, invoice processing, and account reconciliation. With a keen eye for detail and a commitment to accuracy, Marla ensures timely payments, manages vendor relationships, and maintains up-to-date financial records. Her expertise includes managing billing cycles, resolving discrepancies, and supporting month-end closing processes. Marla is dedicated to streamlining workflows, improving efficiency, and contributing to the overall financial health of the organization.
Kelly Probst Bushey Regional Brand Representative
Kelly Probst Bushey might be the newest on staff at Elk Grove Milling, Inc., but she is no stranger to the equine industry. She has over 24 World National Titles and numerous regional and state accolades in Paints, Pintos, and Quarter Horses. With many years of experience in the animal feed industry, making tailored recommendations for equine and livestock rations, she has a well-rounded education on what it takes to feed your horses to their natural potential. When she isn’t showing her horses or working in the industry, she can be found spending time with her family.
Lindsey Close Director of Operations
Lindsey Close joined Elk Grove Milling, Inc. in 2014 as a dispatcher and has steadily advanced through the company, holding positions in outside sales, operations management, and sales management. She currently serves as Director of Operations. Lindsey brings an extensive background in equine management and nutrition, holding multiple degrees and certificates in animal science with an equine specialization. She is a certified Professional Animal Scientist, Equine through ARPAS, and a certified equine nutrition advisor through Legacy Equine. Committed to continuous learning, Lindsey is currently pursuing an MBA with an equine cornerstone project. In addition to her role at Elk Grove Milling, Lindsey teaches online animal science courses at Santa Rosa Junior College, manages an equine retirement boarding facility, and competes in various equestrian disciplines with her personal horses.
Shahid Khan Accounting
Shahid Khan is a detail-oriented, team-driven Accounting Professional with a Master’s degree in Business, Finance, and Economics with 25 years of experience, working in manufacturing environments, spending the last 3 years as Head of Accounting with Elk Grove Milling Inc. with a recent promotion to Controller. He supports all aspects of Finance and Cash Management, including the creation and presentation of financial reporting to ownership, cash flow forecasting, budgeting, and developing standardized processes to eliminate risk and increase efficiency. Financial management responsibilities range from simple accounting, managing payroll, accounts payable, accounts receivable, broad investment, human resources, and banking operations. He is a certified Income Tax Preparer, and is from Pakistan, speaking several languages. In his spare time, Shahid participates in community activities, gardening, and reading Islamic Texts, learning spiritual values.
Lachelle Lopes Administrative Assistant
Lachelle Lopes is a highly valued member of the Elk Grove Milling team, bringing over seven years of dedicated experience as the Administrative Assistant to the President and owner, Robert Lent. Her extensive administrative background includes crucial skills in project management, providing comprehensive office support, and acting as a key liaison with HR matters for the Controller. Lachelle is adept at clearly outlining complex company matters for the President, ensuring smooth operations while seamlessly managing his personal and professional calendars. Her exceptional adaptability allows her to pivot effortlessly to assist colleagues, making her an indispensable asset to the team. Outside of her vital contributions at Elk Grove Milling, Lachelle enjoys traveling and tending to her hobby farm animals.
Rene Ramirez Maintenance Technician Manager
Rene Ramirez brings decades of invaluable experience as a maintenance technician manager in the manufacturing industry. His expertise lies in facility maintenance, where he plays a crucial role in quality control, project management, and implementing significant improvements to scale efficiency and safety. Rene is responsible for managing preventative maintenance schedules and possesses diverse skills in welding, electrical work, and landscaping. With his many contributions to the company, he is also an integral part of a communication liaison between departments with being bilingual in Spanish. When he’s not ensuring operations run smoothly, Rene enjoys tackling handyman projects, spending time with his family, and being with his horses.
Pascual Ruiz Warehouse/Distribution Manager
With over 25 years of manufacturing experience, Pascual is a vital asset to Elk Grove Milling, Inc. He joined us from Nature’s Best Pelleting and quickly rose through the ranks, from Production to leadership roles in Customer Service. Pascual is instrumental in our distribution efforts, having previously been a delivery driver and maintaining his commercial license to assist with freight as needed. His extensive skill set includes being bilingual in Spanish, heavy equipment operation, forklift training, and expertise in DOT and FMCSA regulations. For over 12 years, he has held upper management positions and plays a key leadership role in our FSMA feed safety and HACCP programs. Pascual’s exceptional commitment to customer service, organization, meticulous record-keeping, and “one-team” work ethic make him an invaluable member of our management team.
Brooke Shelton Customer Service, Inside Sales & Regulatory Compliance
Brooke has been a dedicated member of the Elk Grove Milling team for seven years, contributing across a variety of roles and departments. Her current responsibilities include customer service, inside sales, and regulatory compliance—areas where her experience and commitment excellence truly stand out.
Driven by a lifelong passion for horses and equine management, Brooke brings a wealth of practical knowledge to the table. Her hands-on background in operating training and equestrian event facilities, along with her deep understanding of equine care and nutrition, allows her to genuinely connect with customers and offer informed, relatable advice.
Brooke holds an associate degree and is actively working toward her bachelor’s degree to further enhance her expertise in the field. For Brooke, sharing her love for our feeds is more than a job—it’s a natural extension of her belief in the benefits Stable Mix delivers to horses and horse owners every day!
Charlene Truong Customer Service Representative/Office Administration
Since joining EGM on November 28th, 2022, I have been committed to delivering exceptional support for the efficient operation of the company. My organizational skills and attention to detail have made me a key asset in ensuring smooth administrative functions and enhancing overall productivity. I am dedicated to understanding and meeting the needs of EGM customers, ensuring their satisfaction.
In my free time, I enjoy cooking, Foodie adventures, boba, and spending time with my pets which allows me to unwind.
Key Skills/Specialization:
– Communication and interpersonal skills
– Specializes in resolving customer inquiries efficiently
– Bilingual in Lao language
Vicente "Vincent" Villada Production Manager
Vicente “Vincent” Villada brings over three decades of dedicated service to EGM. Starting his career as a hay drag operator, stacker, and bagger, he steadily progressed through various roles, including customer service, mixer, and mill operator. For the past two decades, Vicente has distinguished himself as a highly effective Production Manager. His key skills include operating forklifts, front-end loaders, and hay squeezes. He can also navigate new custom milling projects with expertise and understands the process of manufacturing as more of an art form when working with new ingredients. Vicente also plays a key leadership role in our FSMA feed safety and HACCP programs. He holds certifications in HACCP, ISO 9001:2015, and CPR. Vicente is also a college graduate. When he is not dedicating his time to EGM, he enjoys taking his grandkids fishing.