40 UNDER 40 Emily McKay Emily Wildt SENIOR LEAD GROWER/IPM MANAGER | WALTERS GARDENS Most proud of: Collaborated with programmers from multiple companies to successfully integrate using vapor pressure deficit measurements for triggering misting cycles in both of our propagation ranges. Favorite hobbies: I enjoy crafting. Favorite plant: Lavender 'Phenomenal'. Bucket list: Swim with sea turtles, see the northern lights and go whitewater rafting. Dream vacation destination: European adventure. Cannot live without: Coffee or tea in the morning. SALES REPRESENTATIVE AND TRIAL GARDEN DIRECTOR | RAKER-ROBERTA'S YOUNG PLANTS Most proud of: Obtaining a bachelor's degree in horticulture at Michigan State University. Interesting fact: I played collegiate division III soccer for two years. Thing you are (un) secretly good at: Putt putt golf. Favorite hobbies: Kayaking, hiking, biking and snowboarding. Favorite plant: You don't ask a horticulturist this question. We have lots of favorite plants. Dream vacation destination: Western Europe. Cannot live without: Craft beer. Francois-Simon Robert PROJECT MANAGER AGRONOMIST | BERGER Most proud of: Co-ownership of biomass harvester patent. What led to working in the industry: My curiosity about crop growth. Thing you are (un) secretly good at: Home renovation and equipment retrofit. Favorite hobbies: Rollerblading, traveling and appreciating the sunset. Favorite plant: The Gerbera is my favorite plant variety because it expresses joy and is adaptive to its environment. Cannot live without: My great curiosity to understand my environment. 26 MAY 2024 GPNMAG.COM Jeb Fields ASSISTANT PROFESSOR AND EXTENSION SPECIALIST | LOUISIANA STATE UNIVERSITY AGCENTER Most proud of: My academic career, from my research to my students' success. The impact my career has on the world is something I truly hold dear. What led to working in the industry: It's in my blood really. Favorite hobbies: Anything that brings the family together. Favorite plant: This is unfair and I am going to cheat and go with magnolias (yes, all of them)! Bucket list: Learn to fly.http://www.GPNMAG.COM