Cole Umberson
Age: 18
Parents: Jason and Tonya Umberson
Hometown: Dutch Mills, Ark.
FFA Chapter: Lincoln FFA
Advisors: Sarah Hale and Kevin Barenberg
What is your favorite aspect of agriculture?
“I really like growing up on the farm because I am with my family all of the time while getting the fact that I can get all of the practical hands-on experience in the diverse activities involved in agriculture.”
Who is the most influential person in your life?
“My father is the most influential and has been with me through crisis and good times. He always pushes me to be the best I can be so that now I am starting my own seed herd which has 20 registered Angus and 15 commercial cattle with help from him and loans from Arvest Bank, Farm Bureau and Farm Credit Service. He has taught me responsibility because I cut firewood for extra money. While I sell the oak by the side of the road, I give my time and cedar to my father for the chicken house furnaces in trade for the hay I feed my cattle.”
What is your current involvement in agriculture, including your daily routine?
“I am preparing for showing a registered Angus heifer for the county fair this fall, though my chores change from day to day, season to season. I help feeding and working the cattle in addition to haying and helping in the chicken houses, especially in the broiler houses setting up when a new flock comes in.”
What are your future plans?
“Two years ago I went to the international poultry industry exposition and found my career. I always knew I wanted to be in agriculture but learned that poultry nutritionists are retiring with not enough people entering the industry to meet the need. I plan on first attending college at Eastern Oklahoma State in Wilburton, Okla., for two years and finishing by studying poultry nutrition at the University of Arkansas.”
