DAFVM Spotlight Employee: Melvin Gipson
Melvin Gipson turned his experiences growing up on a farm into a full-time job as a research technician at the South Mississippi Branch Experiment Station.
Gipson works primarily with forages and beef cattle. He manages the day-to-day animal husbandry tasks and works closely with scientists to oversee research projects from start to finish.
“I like my job because of the diversity it provides,” he said. “Every day presents a new or different challenge.”
Agriculture has always been a part of Gipson’s life, which is why he applied for his current position.
“I grew up farming, and I have always enjoyed agriculture,” he said. “I found the application for the research technician position, and I thought it would be a neat job. So here I am.”
Gipson said one thing he wishes people knew about his job is that it comes with many responsibilities.
“My responsibilities involve more than checking the cattle and pastures,” he said. “There is a lot of precise, meticulous work involved in my position that oftentimes people don’t see.”
Outdoor activities are Gipson’s favorite things to do during his free time.
“I have a sawmill at my house, and I enjoy making lumber for projects,” he said. “I grow sugarcane and enjoy making syrup. I also have a garden and some cows at home too. Basically, anything that has me outside, I enjoy doing.”
Gipson has a wife, Mandi, and a daughter, Abby (11).
Editor's note: The Division of Agriculture, Forestry and Veterinary Medicine Spotlight Employee profiles are provided by the Office of Agricultural Communications at Mississippi State. For more information, please click here.
