"Throughout my career, I have learned that most of the time, it's not what you know, but who you know!  Networking and relationship building are key for any career, especially in agriculture.  Internships, meeting new people, going to events, and just not being afraid to go up and introduce yourself to someone will open a lot of doors for anyone down the road."

Fran McCall is a Commodity Specialist at the Kentucky Farm Bureau Federation (KFB). She grew up on a farm, and her family had been in the business for generations before her. As she got older, Fran became heavily involved in 4-H and FFA, competing in livestock judging, Shorthorn cattle shows, and Mini Rex rabbits. She's a 5th generation Shorthorn breeder, and her kids have continued the family tradition.

Being surrounded by agriculture all her life, it was easy to determine what major she would pursue once she entered college. Fran studied animal science at Western Kentucky University and obtained a master's in ruminant nutrition and meat science at the University of Kentucky.

For three years, Fran served as a 4-H Agent in McLean County, but she will celebrate 12 years at KFB this April. As a Commodity Specialist, she coordinates the KFB Certified Farm Market program and works with over 150 market members to support their direct retail markets. She also serves as the KFB representative on the 4-H Foundation Board of Directors, as the KFB liaison for horticulture, equine, and direct marketing, and coordinates the black vulture depredation sub-permit program as well for KFB from U.S. Fish and Wildlife.

When asked if she would've done anything differently, knowing what she knows today, Fran says:

"Looking back, I wish I would have double majored in ag business and animal science as an undergraduate.  I enjoyed the business classes I took in college but wish I had taken more.  Much of my job relates to business and business management, as I work with the Certified Farm Market Program.  Additional communication courses would have also helped me in my career."