Bennett Smith, a senior in agricultural studies at Iowa State University, has his post-graduation plans figured out after completing an internship through the Start Something CALS Summer Internship Program. Smith spent the summer working with Renaud Ag Solutions.
During his internship, Smith assisted with crop applications, including pre-emergence, post-emergence and fungicide treatments. He also scouted crops, conducted individual crop analyses and participated in product trials. These trials helped ensure growers had access to reliable products that Renaud Ag Solutions was proud to put its name behind.
Smith’s favorite part of the internship was being trusted with larger responsibilities and having opportunities to showcase his abilities. He also enjoyed seeing the positive impact the company’s work had on farmers, particularly this growing season.
“We applied fungicide, and sometimes we don't see much of a gain from it, but this year we were able to see results from our test strips, and that solidifies my confidence in what we do to help our growers,” Smith said.
The internship also played a significant role in shaping Smith’s plans after graduation. He plans to stay with Renaud Ag Solutions, where he will have the opportunity to work in agricultural retail while also becoming involved in the farming side of the operation.
“This internship has been huge for my future career because it is where I will be staying after college! Along with being an ag retailer, they are also farmers, so I will also have the ability to be involved in the farming side of the operation, and I am so excited about it!” Smith said.
To learn more about getting involved in the Start Something CALS Summer Internship Program, visit the Start Something CALS website or subscribe to the weekly newsletter.
Written by: Leah Reicher (Oct. 2026)