David Schumacher, farm broadcaster for KTRS (St. Louis, Missouri), began his career working for the St. Louis National Stockyards. At the start of his career, he was one of the youngest licensed livestock buyers in the country.

Few of us know exactly what we are going to be when we are growing up. Life changes and opportunities, both good and bad, present themselves in infinite ways, affecting our professional paths. Ken Root is no exception to this.

What began as a study abroad experience in college led to a career supporting international agriculture for Delaney Howell, president of Ag News Daily.

If you’ve ever enjoyed the sight of a century-old barn standing alongside a rural highway — historical monuments with faded red paint, expertly built with sturdy foundations and strong frames — then you might be able to relate to veteran agricultural broadcaster Gene Millard.

Giving back to organizations that once poured into you and helped foster the growth of the next generation of agriculturalists is something many strive to do. Bryce Doeschot, farm broadcaster and video specialist at KRVN, is doing just that.

Internships are a staple experience for college students to have in any industry. For Jordan Howell, combining her love for agriculture and need to complete a Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE) for her FFA chapter was a natural fit.

Husband-and-wife duo strive to advocate for the message of agriculture in everything they do. The two run a registered Gelbvieh cow/calf operation near Medina, North Dakota. They also grow cash grains, such as wheat, corn, and soybeans.

Farm broadcasting has roots that run deep with Cyndi Young, director of Brownfield Ag News. Young has enjoyed a rewarding career of more than 30 years in the industry and has been an NAFB Broadcast Council member for 35 years.

The path to becoming a farm broadcaster looks different for everyone. Some are passionate about communications and then learn the agriculture side. Some are passionate about agriculture and learn the communications side. Others fall somewhere in between. Brent Barnett, anchor/reporter for Brownfield Ag News currently based in Pella, Iowa, first found his passion for radio broadcasting, then found his niche in farm broadcasting.

For most, life outside of work is just that. However, Matt Olson is finding a way to connect his passion for agricultural communication and his faith.