By Blake Jackson
Missouri Soybeans has introduced a new group of summer interns who will spend the season gaining practical agricultural experience while supporting programs designed to benefit soybean farmers across the state.
The internship program offers college students the opportunity to work directly with staff members and growers while learning more about important areas of the soybean industry, including conservation, agronomy, communications, policy and research.
Throughout the summer, interns will contribute to projects focused on farmer outreach, field studies and industry initiatives aimed at improving productivity and sustainability for Missouri soybean operations.
“Investing in the next generation of agriculture leaders is important to the future of Missouri farming,” said Casey Wasser, Missouri Soybeans CEO and executive director. “Our interns gain real-world experience while contributing to work that directly supports Missouri soybean farmers.”
Daniel Moak of Fulton, Missouri, is returning for a second year as the conservation agriculture intern.
Moak is currently a senior at the University of Missouri studying natural resources science and management with an emphasis in fisheries and wildlife. He will assist with projects that connect conservation practices with practical farming solutions.
“I’m excited to tie conservation practices into sustainable agriculture that maximizes farmer profits while changing the environment for the better,” Moak said.
Gabrielle Clifton of Columbia, Missouri, has joined the organization as the research and agronomy intern. Clifton attends the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and is majoring in agronomy with a minor in grassland ecology and management.
Clifton responsibilities will include supporting research projects designed to provide farmers with tools to improve efficiency and sustainability.
“I am excited to assist with research that provides farmers with tools to increase their profitability and sustainability,” Clifton said. “I hope to grow in my knowledge of agronomy and research, connect with farmers and gain professional experiences and connections in Missouri.”
Mikaela Rojas of New Boston, Missouri, will serve as the communications and education intern, assisting with social media, digital analytics and magazine design projects.
“It is an honor to be working with such a dynamic and experienced team,” Rojas said. “Social media analytics and magazine design are just a few of the many things I am excited to learn from the Missouri Soybeans team this summer.”
Abby Shaffer of Troy, Missouri, joins as the policy intern and will support advocacy efforts and policy-related projects.
“I’m excited to work with such a strong, diverse group of people,” Shaffer said. “There is so much to learn and be a part of with Missouri Soybeans, and I look forward to contributing.”
Photo Credit: missouri-soybeans
Categories: Missouri, Crops, Soybeans, Education