Missouri Soybeans selects three summer interns

The Missouri Soybean Association (MSA) and Missouri Soybean Merchandising Council (MSMC) welcome three interns for the summer of 2023: Jackson Bailey, Luke Hopper and Hannah Bockting. The students represent a range of work experience and agricultural backgrounds, all attending the University of Missouri-Columbia.

"At Missouri Soybeans, we value our summer internship program and enjoy hosting students for an immersive professional working experience," said Gary Wheeler, Missouri Soybeans CEO and executive director. "Our interns help us further serve the Missouri soybean farmer and achieve the mission and vision of our organization. Our goal is to provide students interested in the soybean sector with a robust, hands-on experience that encourages them to get involved in the industry in the future."

Jackson Bailey is serving as the 2023 summer policy and producer outreach intern. Raised in Willow Springs, Jackson gained a first-hand understanding of the importance of agriculture to the state of Missouri. Jackson is a senior at the University of Missouri-Columbia, double-majoring in constitutional democracy and political science with a minor in history. He is also a current member of Phi Alpha Delta Pre-Law Fraternity and the Federalist Society.

"My interest in the summer policy and producer outreach internship with Missouri Soybeans stems from my rural background and interest in how policy can advance the interests of Missouri farmers," said Jackson. "This summer, I hope to enrich my understanding of the industry, interact with Missouri's hard-working soybean farmers and learn from my colleagues' knowledge of the legislative process."

Luke Hopper is joining the Missouri Soybeans team as the research and agronomy intern. Luke is from Chillicothe, where he grew up on a cow-calf operation and helps run the family business, Hopper Electric. Luke is a junior studying agribusiness management. He is a member of Alpha Gamma Rho and is in the Agribusiness Club on campus.

"I have a desire to keep learning," said Luke. "This summer, I hope to expand my knowledge of the soybean industry and the agronomic practices that further the sector. This internship will help provide an immersive experience that will prepare me for my future career path."

Hannah Bockting is the communication and education intern for the 2023 internship experience. Hannah is a sophomore at the University of Missouri – Columbia, where she is pursuing her bachelor's degree in agricultural education, leadership and communication with a minor in agribusiness management. Hannah's collegiate activities include Agricultural Educational Society and Fighting Pretty Mizzou.

"I have always felt passionate about agriculture advocacy, which is why I was drawn to the communications and education internship program," said Hannah. "I believe you never learn anything new inside your comfort zone, and I knew this program would challenge me to try new things and meet new people."