About Patrick
Patrick Knight grew up in Plymouth, Minnesota, in a family that instilled the values of hard work and responsibility from an early age. His father, a product development scientist and entrepreneur, started a small food distribution business in their garage in 1976, working tirelessly seven days a week, often rising before sunrise. Patrick and his family all contributed to the business, learning firsthand the importance of dedication and persistence. At the time, Plymouth was largely undeveloped, and Patrick spent much of his youth exploring the woods and fishing, fostering a lifelong love for the outdoors.
Patrick received a strong public school education before pursuing college and law school. He then served in the Marines (active duty and reserves) for over 20 years, including time as a Judge Advocate in Okinawa, Japan, and later as an infantry officer deployed to the Middle East. He retired in 2006 as a Lieutenant Colonel, demonstrating leadership, discipline, and commitment throughout his military career.
Patrick received a strong public school education before pursuing college and law school. He then served in the Marines (active duty and reserves) for over 20 years, including time as a Judge Advocate in Okinawa, Japan, and later as an infantry officer deployed to the Middle East. He retired in 2006 as a Lieutenant Colonel, demonstrating leadership, discipline, and commitment throughout his military career.
Leveraging the GI Bill, Patrick pursued business school, where he met his wife, Kate. They have since returned to Minnesota to raise their family, with four children—two currently in college and two attending Minnesota public schools.
Professionally, Patrick has built a strong track record in the agribusiness sector, starting at Cargill and culminating in his role as CEO of a Minnesota-based food processing company. There, he led a team of over 100 hardworking Minnesotans, driving impactful results and demonstrating his ability to get things done effectively.
Professionally, Patrick has built a strong track record in the agribusiness sector, starting at Cargill and culminating in his role as CEO of a Minnesota-based food processing company. There, he led a team of over 100 hardworking Minnesotans, driving impactful results and demonstrating his ability to get things done effectively.
Patrick’s background is rooted in hard work, leadership, and results-driven experience and reflects his commitment to serving Minnesota with the same dedication and perseverance that have defined his life.
Education
- Holy Cross, Worcester, MA – BA, History, summa cum laude
- Georgetown Law Center, Washington DC – JD
- Harvard Business School, Cambridge, MA – MBA
Past Community Service
- Plymouth Rotary Club (Past President)
- Plymouth Parks & Recreation Advisory Commission
- Interfaith Outreach Community Partners (IOCP), Chair, Endowment Fund
- St. John’s School of Theology / Seminary, Regent
- Youth hockey coach – 15 years
- Big Brothers Big Sisters of America