DAFVM Spotlight Employee: Dylan Williams
Dylan Williams
Research Associate I
Plant and Soil Sciences
Time in Position: 5 months
Years of Service to MSU: 1 year 3 months
“Showroom ready” may not be how most would describe acres of row crops, but for Research Associate Dylan Williams, it’s his goal. Williams oversees 40 acres of research trials at the Mississippi State University R.R. Foil Plant Science Research Center, better known as “North Farm,” that contribute to groundbreaking agricultural advancements. Under the guidance of Dr. Jagman Dhillon, Williams ensures that every detail is accounted for, from meeting strict deadlines to maintaining an impeccable, weed-free environment.
"I chose this career because of the gratification of having research trials that appeal to the eye for presentations, going out to your fields and retrieving data from crops that you’re growing and the fact you never stop learning while building working relationships with many great people,” said Williams.
At first, William said, research farming was a way to provide for himself; however, through his experiential learning opportunities as a student, he realized just how much he enjoyed the work.
“All that effort as a student worker earned me a full-time job here at Mississippi State. It’s rewarding to see how hard work pays off,” Williams said.
It's Williams' first season, and although his primary focus is on corn, his experience has paved the way for diversification into cotton. This expansion will increase the total acreage of research trials which will allow for new studies and further innovation.
“When your crops flourish and you see the clean alleys and field ends, it’s a feeling of accomplishment,” Williams said.
Williams has a love for the outdoors that stretches beyond research farming. In his free time, he enjoys hunting, fishing, and trying out new recipes.
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