What is your role at Waterman Lab/CFAES?
I am the grower for the Controlled Environment Agriculture Research Complex (CEARC). I help to maintain and monitor the greenhouse through our control program, Priva, as well as monitoring the health of research projects within the facility and providing support of our users with pest, disease, and nutrient management. My role also serves to support research projects at the CEARC that are being led by faculty based at other OSU campuses, such as Wooster.
What brought you to The Ohio State University?
I was a student at The Ohio State University getting my bachelor's degree in Horticulture from 2018-2022. After graduating, I was eager to return to campus while continuing my career in greenhouse production. The CEARC has granted me both of these wishes and continues to provide me with opportunities to learn and grow every day.
Why work for The Ohio State University?
The CEARC is a one-of-a-kind facility providing unique career opportunities while also allowing me to continue living in Columbus. Working in agriculture in an urban area has given me the best of both worlds, and I couldn't ask for a better work environment.
What is your favorite part of The Ohio State University community?
I love the diversity of people I get a chance to interact with on a weekly basis. From students, faculty, and staff to the industry partners regularly visiting our facilities, it has been an amazing experience to get to work with and meet people from across the world who each bring their own expertise, perspective, and background with them.
What interested you in your field of study?
Greenhouse production caught my attention because of the ability to integrate technology and agriculture to gain control over every aspect of the growing environment. I am also interested in the relationships between greenhouse production and sustainability, urban agriculture, and creating a more localized food production system.
Where is your hometown?
Upper Arlington, Ohio. Right down the street from Waterman!
What is an interesting fact about you?
I love to cook and challenge myself to learn new recipes. I often write my own recipes as I go and have a cookbook where I can record all of my favorite things to make.