AFA Alliance members can be found in respected positions throughout the agriculture industry and business world. They are recognized by companies as reliable and effective leaders who can meet the challenges posed by an ever-changing economy.

What is your current position?
I am the Project Coordinator in Producer Services at the National Pork Board, working in development and implementation of educational programs and resources for pork producers. 

Where did you attend college?
I attended the University of Florida and received a bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Education.

How long have you been involved in AFA (in what capacity)? And the Alliance?
This is my first year as an AFA Alliance member. 

Why did you join the Alliance?
An industry colleague first introduced me to the AFA Alliance and I saw it as a great opportunity for personal development and to meet others involved in the agriculture industry.

What do you think is the hardest thing about being a young professional in the agriculture industry?
This is perhaps the most exciting and rapidly changing time in our economy, U.S. and world political systems, and the agriculture industry itself that many of us have ever experienced.  While it is a great opportunity to learn and absorb as much knowledge and information as possible, it can also be challenging to keep abreast of all of the changes and current events as they occur.

What do you find to be most beneficial about being a part of the AFA Alliance?
The opportunity to meet and establish both personal and professional relationships with others who have similar career goals, interests and backgrounds.  It has been said that it is not what you know, but rather who you know that matters most, and I have certainly found that to be true over the years.

What advice would you give to anyone that is graduating and looking for a job in the agriculture industry?
Take advantage of the many internship opportunities available.  A college internship opened the door for me to obtain my current position.  The knowledge and skills gained and the contacts I established during that time have been instrumental in allowing me to reach career goals that I set for myself.