Amy Fannon
Extension Agent, Virginia Tech
Amy Fannon
Extension Agent
4-H Forestry Judging and the National 4-H Forestry Invitational had a great impact both on my life and career choice. I joined the forestry judging team in Scott County, VA when I was 14 years old and was able to compete at the National 4-H Forestry Invitational at 17. Growing up in the Appalachian Mountains, I was very familiar with the forests around me, but forestry judging allowed me the opportunity to view the forests with a critical eye and to truly understand how these forests function as a part of a larger ecosystem. Participating in this program also gave me the chance to further my interests in natural resources in a school system that did not offer curriculum in agriculture or natural resources.
I gained technical forestry, leadership, and teamwork skills from 4-H Forestry Judging and preparing for the National 4-H Forestry Invitational imparted even more study and leadership skills. As the oldest member of the team, I was able to play an even greater leadership role, ensuring that each team member had a chance to play to his or her strengths. At the Invitational, my team and I also gained knowledge about the various forest types well beyond the forests we grew up familiar by networking with teams and professionals from across the nation.
As a result of my experiences with 4-H Forestry Judging, I attended Virginia Tech and focused on a natural resources career. I graduated with a B.S. in soil science and a minor in forestry. I am currently finishing my M.S. concentrating on agroforestry systems. In 2009, I was hired by Virginia Tech as an Extension Agent working in Mined Land Reclamation in Southwest Virginia. In the future, I hope to help other children with 4-H Forestry Judging and perhaps volunteer with the National 4-H Forestry Invitational.
