Nelsen holds a bachelor's degree in music and a master's of education. He taught band and music in the Wendell School District for three years before he became a full-time dairy farmer on his family's farm.
Nelsen has served on the Jerome County Planning and Zoning Commission, Mid-Snake Water Commission, the Jerome County Republican Central Committee, and is a member of the Jerome Rotary Club.
He has served on the CSI Board of Trustees since November 2016 and is strong advocate for technical education as well as a proud supporter of the CSI's Scholarship program.
Nelsen's favorite activities - fishing and skiing - were born from treasured days spent in the Wood River Valley with his family during his childhood. He enjoys sharing his love of the Magic Valley with his wife of 42 years, Emily, and their three sons, Chris, Greg, and Matt and their families.
"Everything in Idaho comes down to preserving our water, agriculture, and recreation opportunities through strong, local communities.
I believe in respect, integrity, and a commitment to preserving and protecting Idaho's land and resources, while also looking toward changing times and opportunities for growth."