By Mindy Ward, 2021 AAEA President
My son-in-law is a teacher. During his first year, he called me with “teacher” questions. I don’t know why. In my family there are five others with teaching degrees. So, I did what any great mother-in-law would do. I told him to ask one of them.
At the start of any career there are often questions. It is normal. However, it is important that you have the right resource to answer those questions, so seek out someone in the same field.
A great resource for young professionals is a mentor. Good news, the Ag Communicators Network is the one professional organization with more than 300 professionals whose passion is communicating about agriculture.
AAEA Members show off their prized plaques following the
2021 AAEA Communication Awards ceremony.
(Photo Courtesy: Chuck Zimmerman)
Membership in the Ag Communicators Network offers you access to a group of individuals who are highly skilled in writing, photography, and association communications. Here are four places to start your search for a mentor:
Directory. Our online membership directory is full of great mentors. You can search by name or by state.
Fellows program. Ag Communicators Network knows the need for developing the next generation of ag communicators. A few years ago, this program began as a way to elevate individuals who have been instrumental in the success of this organization and agriculture communications. The primary role of our Fellows is to mentor. A list can be found here.
Special Interest Groups. These groups, known as SIGS, serve as a place for individuals to meet and learn from each other. There are four special interest groups—editors, freelancers, photographers, association communications and young professionals. Feel free to be a part of more than one. These groups get together though virtual channels—Facebook and Zoom–or even in-person meet-ups at Ag Media Summit or regional meetings. Plug into a SIG and find a mentor.
Webinars. Many Ag Communicators Network members take part in webinars whether by presenting or simply attending. It is a great chance to see and hear a little bit of members personality and passion. Perhaps you can find a member here who can help you advance your career.
However, you choose to engage in finding a mentor, ACN is here for you. If you want a little more information or simply chat about possibilities, shoot me an email at [email protected] or our ACN executive director Samantha Kilgore at [email protected]. We are happy to help.
Don’t let another year go by. Find an ag communications mentor and get the answers you need to advance your career.
Mindy Ward is the Senior Content Director with Farm Progress. She is also Editor of the Missouri Ruralist magazine.