What is your story?

I was raised in Pierce, Nebraska alongside three brothers. My childhood consisted of playing sports and helping on my family's cow/calf operation. Growing up in agricultural taught me several life lessons that I still hold true to this day. During high school, I participated in several activities and organizations including football, basketball, baseball, FFA, Student Council, and National Honor Society. Although I considered several career paths throughout high school, I always new I would be the happiest pursuing a career in agriculture. It was not until I arrived at UNL that I realized I wanted to study agricultural economics. I intend to use the knowledge and experiences I gain in college to scale my business and to create other entities.

What is your business?

Willow Creek Honey. Sale of honey to Nebraska FFA chapters to be resold in their annual fruit sale fundraisers.

What advice would you give to a student starting their entrepreneurial journey?

Your dreams won't work unless you do.

What has been your favorite "Engler Experience" to date?

My favorite Engler Experience thus far has been listening to a lecture by Paul Genho my sophomore year. He was very intelligent and enlightening and had a focus on agriculture, specifically beef production and its future in America.

What has been the biggest hurdle or struggle you've dealt with in your entrepreneurial journey?

Dealing with federal and state regulatory and compliance requirements has been the biggest challenge for me in creating Willow Creek Honey. There are over a hundred different documents, FAQ sheets, and activity logs one has to consider when providing food for resale.