A typical day for Makenzie Shifflett - assistant farm manager at the Eastern Shore Agricultural Research and Extension Center (AREC) - is anything but routine. 

“One morning, we first had to repair an irrigation line that had been run over the night before and was completely busted. That same afternoon, we enjoyed a watermelon in the field after a Plant Pathology harvest,” Shifflett said.  

She is responsible for whatever needs the farm has that day. 

Of course, she’d always love to be outside overseeing fieldwork and ensuring crops are planted and harvested on time, which makes up the bulk of what she does. But Makenzie appreciates the unpredictability of farm life.

“Every day is different, but we always manage to get the job done,” she said.

Shifflett is carving a path for herself embracing both the challenges and rewards that come with the job. A strong believer in helping those who come after her, Shifflett views her work as a way to give back to the institution that shaped her.

“I loved my time as a student at Virginia Tech, and what better way to give back than by contributing to its research efforts that support the agricultural community?” she said. 

Shifflett is passionate about sustainable agricultural production, with the aim of improving farmer profitability while minimizing agriculture’s environmental impact. She expressed her enthusiasm for cover crops, highlighting their effectiveness in reducing external inputs like fertilizers and herbicides.

“By reducing inputs, we can make a significant impact on both farm profitability and the environment,” Shifflett said.

She takes pride in working with faculty and students on cover crop research and other impactful studies that directly benefit Virginia farmers. Her desire to improve growers’ operations demonstrates the importance of institutions like the Eastern Shore AREC.  

A natural leader, collaboration plays a crucial role in Shifflett’s work. As an assistant farm manager, she values cooperation and open communication with her crew. 

“I always ask my team for their input,” she said. “There’s not one right way to do something, and problem-solving is a team effort.” 

This contribution-friendly approach has fostered a positive work environment where mutual respect and teamwork thrive.

“Makenzie has more drive than anyone I’ve worked with before,” Farm Manager Andrew Fletcher said. “We have similar goals and expectations for how we want the farm to be run. Her presence on the farm has contributed to a culture of respect and camaraderie with her coworkers.” 

The farm crew poses behind the AREC sign, all smiles (Makenzie Shifflett, second from the left). Photo courtesy of Alana Martin, Virginia Tech.

Farm Crew Photo
The farm crew poses behind the AREC sign (Makenzie Shifflett, second from the left). Photo by Alana Martin for Virginia Tech.

Looking ahead, Shifflett’s goals for the farm include increased organization, efficiency, and continuing to meet the needs of faculty and staff. She is committed to keeping the farm running smoothly, while embracing recent technologies and sustainable practices.

Her advice to others is simple yet powerful. 

“Believe in yourself, never give up, and take every opportunity to learn and do more,” Shifflett said. “I say yes to trying anything.”