What do you love most about being an ag teacher? The most rewarding aspect of my job is being a positive influence in my student’s lives as they develop into productive members of society with a future.

What is your biggest challenge as an ag teacher? Time.  There never seems to be enough of it.  It seems like the “To Do List” never gets “To Done”. But it’s not boring. Every time I think I’ve seen it all, one of my students reminds that I haven’t.

What have you learned thus far in your teaching career that you wish you would have known when you first began teaching? Patients and how to pick my battles. 

What advice would you give a novice teacher entering this profession now? Find a strong mentor early and don’t be afraid to ask for help and advice. Develop positive relationships with as many people as possible and don’t burn bridges.  Don’t expect it to be easy, it won’t be, but it will be worth it.

What personal qualities or abilities do you think are important to being successful in this profession? You need to be somewhat of a salesman.  You are constantly selling your program and the agricultural industry to administrators, counselors, the community, and your students.  It’s also important to have thick skin, broad shoulders, and a big heart, all of which will be tested frequently. 

What does a typical day look like to you? Fast, Productive, Fun and Challenging. 

What most prepared you for being an agriculture educator? It feels like I’m still preparing but I’d say it was (and still is) the support of my mentors. 

If you could relive one of your most memorable days as a teacher, which day would it be and why? March 18, 2016.  The day my son competed at the regional level in the Creed.  It has been a true blessing to work with my own child and see the growth in him that I have seen in so many other children.  No I know from a parents perspective the importance and value in agricultural education. 

Describe ag teaching in one to two words.  Amazing.