Perry started farming in 1978 as a partner in Skaurud Grain Farms, which is a diversified family partnership,  that produces  sugarbeets, edible beans, corn, soybeans,  and wheat.  The family farm is located near Mahnomen, MN.  and has raised sugarbeets since 1990.  Perry has served as a director and officer of the Red River Valley Sugarbeet Growers Association and as a Director for American Crystal Sugar Company.