Meet the TrueFood Team
Darren Barkman
Head Grower
Back in 1999, TrueFood's co-founder and Head Grower, Darren Barkman, was driving his tractor around his farm as he watched the rain come up yet again, wishing he could put a roof over the fields. Then it hit him - he could. This light bulb moment led to years of research, education and hands-on farming experience in the fascinating world of hydroponic growing. He went on to start several successful hydroponic farms, selling highly sought after products that customers proclaimed, "tasted so much better," than other produce to local restaurants and grocery stores. After selling the business and moving to Iowa with his family in 2015, he saw an opportunity to serve the local community in Stanton by starting a new and technologically advanced hydroponic farm in an effort to share the tasty lettuce, herbs, and specialty greens with the area.
Today, Darren runs the greenhouse and farms alongside local TrueFood hydroponic farmers. He started his international hydroponic growing career many years ago, building upon his traditional farming knowledge from years prior.
Brian Barkman
TRUEFOOD CEO
Brian is a visionary leader with demonstrated ability to research, develop and oversee supply chain improvements. He has recognized skill in recruiting and coordinating a results-oriented team to deliver significant returns to all parties. Brian's core values center around his deep desire to leave a positive mark on the people he meets, and this focus on relationship emanates in all he does.
Brian also has a wealth of farming knowledge that dates back to his childhood years where he grew up helping to operate his family’s corporate farm. Today, Brian runs several successful businesses and is the co-founder of TrueFood, where he is working alongside Darren to integrate his vast experience in logistics with hydroponic greenhouse practices to grow the best tasting, natural produce in local communities.
Sallie Barkman
Marketing Manager
Sallie is an award-winning, collaborative marketing thought-leader whose background is in non-traditional and experiential marketing, social media advertising and creative strategy, as well as media strategy. She’s a curious person who has been fascinated with the hydroponic farming industry and the TrueFood story and she’s passionate about serving local communities. Today Sallie is working alongside Darren and Brian to spread the word about TrueFood and help people discover the best quality produce in their area.