Ferguson College of Agriculture

Get to Know Dr. Eck!

 

Tell us a little bit about yourself:

"Growing up in southwest Florida I did not have the opportunity to be involved in agricultural education and FFA, as these programs were not available when I was in school there. In college, I quickly grew to appreciate agricultural education and the passion individuals had for the FFA through my wife, Sarah. This connection leads to me to a degree in agricultural education, where I then taught middle and high school agriculture in central Florida for five years. My time as an agricultural education teacher is something I will always remember, as that was my drive to pursue a Ph.D. in Agricultural Education at OSU, aiming to eventually prepare future school-based agricultural education teachers. That dream became a reality, as I am now an Assistant Professor of Agricultural Education in the Department of Agricultural Sciences at Clemson University."

 

What is your favorite part of your job?

"The best part of my job is that I get to work with students who are passionate about agriculture every day. I have the opportunity to work with undergraduate and graduate students who are pursuing degrees in agricultural and extension education, with the intent of entering the workforce as a school-based agricultural education teachers, extension professional, future agricultural education faculty, or a variety of other careers promoting and educating the public about agriculture. Not only do I get to work with these students, but I also get to see them develop as future professionals through coursework, internships, and research opportunities."

 

How has your agricultural education Ph.D. served you in your career?

"A degree in agricultural education has endless potential, for me, I had the opportunity to work with students as an agricultural education teacher before coming to OSU to complete my Ph.D. I chose to attend OSU for my Ph.D. because of the mentoring and support system that is in place in addition to a variety of course offerings. My degree from OSU has prepared me for a career as a faculty member in agricultural education. The faculty in the Department of Agricultural Education, Communication, and Leadership are second to none, offering relevant coursework, advisement, and guidance for their students, preparing them for endless career opportunities."