Kent Yelverton is the Director of the N.C. State Fair and a longtime leader with the N.C. Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. A native of Wayne County who grew up on his family’s farm, Kent earned a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from NC State University and became a registered professional engineer.

Kent joined the Department of Agriculture in 1992 and held a variety of engineering and leadership positions before becoming manager of the N.C. State Fair in 2018. His career has included overseeing major construction, renovation and infrastructure projects across the state’s agricultural facilities.

Today, Kent leads the operation of one of North Carolina’s most beloved annual traditions while also overseeing a fairgrounds that operates year-round. His work combines agriculture, engineering, event management and a commitment to making the State Fair welcoming to people from across North Carolina.