Rock Nelson serves as the International Trade Advisor for South Dakota Trade. He is a 4^th-generation native of South Dakota and a graduate of Augustana University in Sioux Falls. Mr. Nelson works closely with state, local and regional businesses, manufacturers, and various agricultural sectors to grow their export potential. His duties include assisting businesses with numerous trade-related issues and providing training and seminars on international trade, with a focus on assisting businesses interested in expanding their export potential and companies new to the export market. 

Prior to South Dakota Trade, Mr. Nelson served for 20 years as the International Trade Director with the Sioux Falls Development Foundation. Since 2014, Mr. Nelson has hosted The Rock Report, a weekly radio segment in South Dakota that highlights export-centric companies, including related service providers. Prior to this career in international trade, Mr. Nelson created a multi-state wastepaper/cardboard recycling business.