Student success is at the heart of what we do, and it starts with creating meaningful connections that prepare students for their futures. The AgriBusiness Club, led by Susan Skees and Dr. Tim Woods, is dedicated to offering students opportunities that truly bridge the gap between their education and the agricultural industry. By connecting aspiring students with experienced professionals, the club helps members gain insight, build confidence, and find their place in the field. 

Our meetings are a space where students can engage directly with industry leaders, learning about various aspects of agriculture and hearing firsthand about the challenges and rewards of the profession. We also organize two trips each year—one in-state and one out-of-state—so students can experience different agricultural practices and meet professionals across the country. 

Jenna Coles, one of our dedicated officers, shares, “AgriBusiness Club is special because it focuses on getting students connected to industry professionals and exposing them to possible career paths. We bring in many people in the agricultural industry to share their experiences and advice, and the trips allow us to build connections all over the country.” 

These trips are not just about traveling; they’re about broadening horizons and understanding the diverse realities of agriculture. Whether it’s visiting produce farms in Florida or livestock operations in Texas, students see agriculture in action, gaining knowledge that deepens their appreciation and prepares them for the careers they are passionate about. 

We also believe in the power of community, which is why we focus on connecting with alumni. By involving past members in our meetings and trips, we aim to create a network where students can access mentorship, internships, and career opportunities. These connections remind us that we’re all part of something bigger, and we’re grateful for the support our alumni offer to students navigating their paths. 

At our first meeting this year, we welcomed Consolidated Grain and Barge (CGB) to share their story with us. Abigail Hurst, a representative from CGB and Ag Econ alumna, spoke about their Grain Leadership Trainee program and how the company has a strong history of recruiting our students and alumni. We were honored to have Dr. Aslihan Spaulding, Chair of the Agricultural Economics Department, join us and emphasize the importance of building relationships in the industry.  

The AgriBusiness Club is committed to supporting every student’s journey in agriculture. We know that success doesn’t happen alone, and we are here to walk alongside our members, helping them find the experiences and connections that will make a difference in their future careers. 

Ready to make an impact in the AgriBusiness community? Join the AgriBusiness Club or share your insights at one of our meetings! Reach out to Susan Skees at susan.skees@uky.edu, and don’t forget to follow us on Instagram @ukagribusinessclub for the latest updates and events! We can’t wait to connect with you! 

The Department of Agricultural Economics at The University of Kentucky is dedicated to empowering students, faculty, and staff through innovative teaching, impactful research, and meaningful community engagement. Our department is committed to creating an inclusive and collaborative environment that drives excellence in education and contributes to addressing real-world challenges in our field. 

For more information on our programs, events, and initiatives, please visit agecon.ca.uky.edu or follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTube.