"..the answer was always clear. Our People."

I grew up in rural New South Wales, Australia in sheep and wheat country. I was lucky enough to be raised alongside agriculture, waving to the combines driving through town and visiting farms with friends on the weekend. My first proper introduction to ag was sweeping the shearing shed and picking rocks for days on end.

My parents were both in the medical field and this showed me the influence that a positive attitude and strong work ethic can have on an environment. I engaged with the world of leadership early spending several years with the Australian Army cadets and being elected College Captain in Grade 12. After high school I decided that I should get out and see what the world has to offer, I landed in Calgary in 2011.

I spent the next several years working with under privileged youth in Kananaskis Country horseback guiding and facilitating group activities. It was this experience that taught me the power of people and the importance of creating a strong team and culture. This eventually led to a position with the University of Calgary WA Ranches where my passion for Canadian Ag flourished. The history, the connection to the land and the care with which the people in ag care for their animals were just some of the influencing factors. 

From there, I moved to Okotoks and have worked with TELUS Agriculture as the Animal Health Field Lead, managing a team of field technicians and servicing clients worldwide. This has shown me the power of data analytics and the importance it holds to an operation.

In 2023, I was a finalist in the Canadian Cattle Young Leaders program through the Canadian Cattlemen's Association. At the selection competition I heard the other finalists talking about their herds, genetics, markets, direct to consumer beef, and I realised that I needed to be able to offer something different. With my experience facilitating team building for youth and adults, the answer was clear. Our people.  

As someone who entered the industry later in life I have seen the challenges associated with that. There is a steep learning curve and managers take a risk engaging with inexperienced employees. As part of my mentorship I was connected with Michelle Calvo-Lorenzo, a world renowned expert in animal welfare. Through this mentorship I developed REACH Ag and the programs within it. Michelle's unique insight to the industry was a driving force behind this idea and changed the way I view my own potential in this industry. 

I was also offered the opportunity to travel to Thailand to participate in the United Nations Global Agenda for Sustainable Livestock. This experience opened my eyes to the vast array of agriculture on the global stage and Canada's place within it. 

Outside of work you can find me coaching local youth rugby and playing with the Bow Valley Grizzlies or supporting my wife at cutting horse shows around Alberta. 

My goal for REACH Ag is to be the change I want to see. With my wide-ranging background I am able to come at these issues with a unique approach and help you develop an operation that can cultivate tradition, harvest purpose and uncover your why!