James Lee

Degree:    Bachelor of Science
Major:      Agricultural Industries & Marketing
                Communications Emphasis

Years in the Field:   13
Current Job Title:     Senior Field Trainer
Organization:           Nash Finch Company       

How did you find this job?
Monster.com

Previous Job Titles and Organizations:
Area Manager, News America
Marketing Retail Services Manager, NK Lawn & Garden 

Please describe your job:
1.  Analyze training needs. 
2.  Develop training materials. 
3.  Implement training programs. 
4.  Conduct Train-the-Trainer programs. 
5.  Communicate with different departments about ongoing training programs.  

What from your undergraduate educational experience was most helpful in preparing you for this career?
1.  Speech/communications classes 
2.  The Rhetoric department (writing/communications) 
3.  FarmHouse Fraternity 
4.  NAMA – National Agri-Marketing Association
5.  FFA – Future Farmers of America

What is the biggest misconception about this occupation or field?
People underestimate how much time is spent on the development side, how much training is really an ongoing, everyday process, and that trainers have to be talented and engaging presenters. Good trainers are good communicators, both in a classroom setting and one-on-one.

What advice do you have for current students?
1.  Keep an open mind about your career goals.
2.  Realize that the first job you find may not be exactly what you are looking for,
     but may lead to what you want. 
3.  Develop your communication skills, both written and verbal.  It is easier to train
     daily skills than communication skills. Be prepared to showcase these on your
     resume, cover letters/emails, and in the interview.