Erica Rogers received her Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Economics in 2018 along with a BBA in Management. In 2022, Rogers received her Master of Public Administration. Currently, Rogers works as the Director of Agriculture Development in the Lexington-Fayette Urban County Government. In Roger’s position she supports and grows local agricultural economies, both on and off the farm, serves as the City’s liaison for agricultural and food initiatives, and advances Lexington’s agricultural technology sector.

Q: Trends show that upon graduating, most professionals will change jobs several times. Have you stayed in the same position since graduating or moved into new ones? 

A: My recent job change was my first after spending 5 years with Farm Credit Mid-America. I think when you find a good opportunity, there is a lot of value in giving yourself time to grow and develop there, but it is also important to keep an eye out for new ways to advance professionally.  

Q: Is your current professional path where you would have envisioned yourself as an undergraduate? 

A: Since an undergraduate internship in Washington DC, it’s been my hope to support Kentucky agriculture through the lens of policy and programming, so I’m excited to see that become a reality.  

Q: How do you feel your undergraduate and/or graduate studies within the Agricultural Economics Department prepared you for your current position? 

A:The AEC Courses are thorough and set students up for a variety of jobs in agriculture and business, but the experiential parts of my undergraduate years like internships, studying abroad, and extracurriculars were really what prepared me for this career path.  

Q: How have the relationships you formed within the Agricultural Economics Department contributed to your success?  

A: As a student worker in the department, I got to know most of the faculty and staff well, and their support and advice has been vital to me. I've also been lucky enough to make and keep many friends through the department, both of which I’m very thankful for.  

Q: What piece of advice do you have for undergraduates who are preparing for graduation? 

A: Don’t wait for an opportunity to come to you. Reach out, be proactive, and use your network to your advantage.