Trent McCracken
Athens,GA
Summary
Dynamic and results-oriented professional with a robust background in research, horticulture, and genetics, honed at institutions like the University of Georgia and the Pennsylvania State University. Expert in data analysis and project management, I excel in collaboration and innovative problem-solving, significantly enhancing research outcomes. Proven track record in improving processes, exemplified by a 50% reduction in fungus gnat prevalence through biopesticide application.
Overview
3
3
years of professional experience
Work History
Graduate Research Assistant
University of Georgia
08.2024 - Current
- Planned and conducted experiments relating to tomato volatile production
- Recorded data and maintained source documentation in an orderly manner to convey information easily
- Reviewed technical and professional publications and journals to stay current on recent literature and make more strategic research decisions.
- Learned new laboratory techniques and applied expertise in carrying out enhanced experiments under the supervision of senior lab members.
- Managed greenhouse-grown tomatoes, performing proper pruning, trellising, watering, and fertilization tasks. Additionally, I conducted hand pollinations to support controlled breeding efforts.
Horticultural Assistant
Holmes Seed Co.
08.2024 - Current
- Liaised with customers, management, and sales team to better understand customer needs and recommend appropriate solutions
- Created comprehensive production sheets for 43 products sold
- Staying up-to-date with current growing methods to better assist growers
Consulting Utility Forester
Davey Resource Group
06.2023 - 08.2024
- Developed and implemented strategic work plans for line clearance in utility rights-of-way, collaborating closely with tree crews and fellow foresters to optimize efficiency and safety
- Ensured tree crews adhered to OSHA safety standards, providing oversight and guidance to maintain compliant and secure working conditions.
- Managed customer relations by liaising with homeowners to secure ROW access, effectively resolving conflicts through strong communication and problem-solving skills
- Mitigated access-related issues by identifying practical solutions that balanced utility requirements with property owner concerns, fostering positive community relationships
- Used GIS programs to map work to be done for tree crews accurately
- Identified trees considered hazardous to power line safety, oversaw 10 tree removals per line mile
Undergraduate Research Assistant
Pennsylvania State University
01.2022 - 05.2023
- Conducted fieldwork with maize to increase anthocyanin production - aided in creating an irrigation system for the field and scouted for pests
- Developed methodology for applying a sorghum-derived biopesticide to control fungus gnats by 50% in mushroom production
- Worked in collaboration with a team to create a comprehensive blueberry cultivation program for the student farm and presented the work in front of State College Borough stake holders
Education
Bachelor of Science - Plant Sciences
Pennsylvania State University
University Park, PA05-2023
Skills
- Research design
- Literature reviews
- Data analysis
- Project management
- Faculty collaboration
- Data modeling
- Data interpretation
- R studio
- Integrated Pest/Vegetation Management
- Tree Identification
- Customer Service
- Leadership
Timeline
Graduate Research Assistant
University of Georgia
08.2024 - Current
Horticultural Assistant
Holmes Seed Co.
08.2024 - Current
Consulting Utility Forester
Davey Resource Group
06.2023 - 08.2024
Undergraduate Research Assistant
Pennsylvania State University
01.2022 - 05.2023
Bachelor of Science - Plant Sciences
Pennsylvania State University
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