Faces of AgSci Stories
Roots Run Deep
I was born and raised in Prineville, the center of Oregon. Growing up, I was surrounded by agriculture: cattle, hay, horses, and seed crops. The community I was raised in helped foster my love for the agricultural industry and the blood, sweat, and tears it takes to survive a day providing food and fiber for millions of Americans and people worldwide. I come from a family that values servant leadership, whether that is teaching, working for a non-profit, or providing services to your county. My three biggest passions in life are educating, agriculture, and family. Luckily enough, I get to have a career that combines all three.
Planting Purpose, Growing Impact
I grew up in Chicago in a working-class Mexican and Guatemalan family, where I learned early the value of hard work and perseverance. Knowing I wanted more opportunity and purpose in my life, I joined the United States Marine Corps, where I served as a radio operator in an artillery unit. That experience instilled in me discipline, accountability, and a strong work ethic that continue to shape who I am today.
From Pastures to Possibility
I am someone who thrives in hands-on environments and enjoys continuously learning, whether through my research, teaching, or in the classroom as a student. I have many hobbies such as traveling, being active outdoors, and working with livestock, especially beef cattle. I grew up on a beef cow/calf operation in Sixes, a very rural town on the Oregon coast. I grew up doing 4-H, ranching, and showing livestock. I knew from a young age that I wanted to pursue a career in the beef industry, it is my greatest passion, and I hope to make a lasting impact in the field that has given me so much.
Fields of Opportunity
My field of study has taken me to various places over the years. It has taken me to Knockalva Polytechnic College, where I completed my Diploma in General Agriculture; to various farms across Jamaica, such as citrus and dairy farms; and to C.A.S.E. (College of Agriculture, Science and Education), where I am currently studying to achieve my BSc. in Plant Science. The magnum opus of these experiences was when I was given the opportunity to complete my internship, as required by my program, at Oregon State University, particularly at the Klamath Basin Research and Extension Center.
Tending to Tomorrow
I’ve always been really people-oriented, and some of my favorite moments are when I get to connect with others and build community. Growing up visiting my grandparents’ sesquicentennial farm gave me a front-row seat to how agriculture is more than just work; it’s part of family, tradition, and who we are. Seeing the care and dedication that went into that farm sparked my passion for agriculture and inspired me to share that passion with others.
Insects, Insight, Impact
I worked as a chef for nearly a decade and still like to think I’m one of the fastest sauté cooks in the West. That experience taught me to thrive under pressure, think creatively, and appreciate the art of transformation. These days, I’ve traded the heat of the kitchen for the buzz of the classroom and the field, but that same energy drives my work in science and education.
