Ray began his career at Willmar Poultry Company in 1958. His father, Albin Norling, was one of the original founders of the business in 1945, and Ray came on board “temporarily” to assist with some of the bookkeeping. He then became Office Manager. Soon he was involved in every aspect of the business, including Hatchery Manager and PALS Manager. Ray served on multiple turkey industry boards and committees, and received the Lifetime Achievement award at both the state and national level.