Cooper Smith Email & Phone Number

Ames, Iowa, United States

Sanborn, Iowa

Alpha Ag Research allowed me to be apart of a team that brings forth honestly and integrity through the research we conduct. Our research creates quality unbiased data for contracted companies. Starting with seed packaging and ending with product harvest. The data we produce is of the highest quality to ensure our research goals are met in an honest and ethical way for our customer’s needs.Alpha Ag Research also is giving me the opportunity to be apart of the Farmers Independent Research of Seed Technologies (FIRST) seed trials. FIRST seed trials give farmers the opportunity to make an informed and unbiased decision about the seed they choose for their operation.My role in this new position is to help prepare and plan the packaging, planting, data collection, and harvest of both the Alpha Ag Research and FIRST program objectives.

Ames, Iowa

Conducted nitrogen analysis for soil and plant samples. Typical responsibilities include.1. Soil sampling fields at Iowa State Research farms2. Extracting nitrogen with 2M KCl3. Microplating samples with reagents4. Reading plates with spectrometer machineOther responsibilities include• Organizing field days• Weighing/drying samples• Recording data• Making reagents or extractants• Washing lab equipment• General clean upDuring this time, I participated in Science with Practice where I sampled soils during the winter of 2016 to find nitrogen concentration.

Nevada, Iowa

Here I learned what steps seed companies take to advance the best lines. Some of my tasks included: • Planted test plots throughout Iowa• Lead crews of people tissue sampling/note taking• Crossed soybeans - 48% success rate• Recorded flower notes and soybean maturity• Hand harvesting and hand threshing• Combining research plots with ALMACO SHP-90, SHP-50 and dual row yield trial combinesAfter this experience, I gained skills related to communication, critical thinking, and organization.

Morristown, Mn

While interning I learned the basics of how to scout a field for weed identification and nutrient deficiencies. Daily tasks would include:• Scouting fields • Aphid, weed, and deficiency identification• Delivering bulk fertilizer and chemical to customers• Helping load seed or chemical to farmersThrough this experience, I learned the needs of growers and how to interact with them. I also learned how to relay important information to agronomists who would make the decisions for the growers.

Shakopee, Mn

Learned customer service and communication skills by leading group tours around the Dinosaurs Alive section of the park.Further solidified my customer service and communication skills through selling merchandise in the Dinosaurs Alive Souvenir Shop.

Richfield, Mn

Handled transactions whether it be selling vacuums, filters or servicing vacuums. Fixed minor problems and conducted general cleanings.