By Emmy Powell
Communications Specialist

Agriculture has been the center of Wes Shaw’s life, cultivating his passion for farming and ranching.

Shaw grew up in the Texas Panhandle, where his family planted their roots in agriculture.

“I’ve grown to have a passion and love for agriculture,” Shaw said. “Seeing my dad, my granddad and my uncle who are all such hard workers and put their blood, sweat and tears into our family’s operation to keep it surviving and thriving has made such an impact. My mom’s side of the family is full of many ag teachers and that also motivates me to pursue agriculture.”

Shaw is a freshman at Texas Tech University studying agricultural communications with a minor in natural resources.

He is now serving as the reporter for the Matador Collegiate Farm Bureau Chapter at Texas Tech, which was chartered this semester.

Shaw participated in Texas Farm Bureau’s (TFB) Student Success Series and the Speak Out for Agriculture (SOFA) Challenge in high school. He also grew up participating in 4-H and FFA.

“Participating in Farm Bureau helps in educating yourself about what issues are facing agriculture,” Shaw said.

He noted it’s important for college students to understand these issues.

“College students are of age to vote, and Farm Bureau is a great advocacy organization,” he said. “As college students, Farm Bureau helps us have our voices heard politically and educates us, as well.”

After graduation, his goal is to pursue a career in agricultural policy as lobbyist.

Shaw is involved in several other organizations on campus, including Texas Tech Student Government Association, First Year Leadership Association, Block and Bridle, Collegiate Cattlemen’s Association and Davis College Ambassadors for Agriculture. He also leads a youth group at his church.

“Agriculture is one of the greatest, if not the greatest pursuit, in any form of history,” Shaw said. “We think about our leaders who, from the past, like George Washington, who grew up in agriculture, and it’s the lifeblood of our nation. It’s time for the next generation to step in and fill the roles as the next leaders of our nation because without agriculture, our society will collapse. It’s important we know what our role is going to be in agriculture.”

For more information on collegiate opportunities, visit texasfarmbureau.org/collegiate.