I have dedicated my life to agriculture, communication, and positive youth development since before I knew that's what I was doing. My youth years included being born and raised on a beef cattle operation in Southwest Missouri and being a member of a local 4-H club. I completed my undergraduate degree at the University of Arkansas in Agricultural Education, Communication, and Technology (communications concentration) with a minor in Agricultural Systems Technology Management. Following my graduation, I served as the Youth Program Associate for the University of Missouri Extension in Jasper County for more than 3 1/2 years. As I was in my YPA role, I completed a Master of Science degree from the University of Missouri in Agricultural Leadership, Communication and Education.Since July 1, 2022, I have served the Missouri 4-H State Shooting Sports Coordinator and Natural Resources Educator. I had always seen a future working in a county 4-H role, but this position has been an amazing fit for my interest, talents, and skills, and I couldn't be more grateful. Youth shooting sports is a wonderful field to work, and natural resources education is an ever-important area for youth as our world becomes more and more digitally connected.