A senior studying Dairy Science, Agricultural Communications, and International Agriculture at Iowa State University, Irene Nielsen actively engages in campus life and the broader agriculture industry. Her curiosity about global agriculture was sparked during several study abroad experiences, where she identified areas for improvement within the industry. Motivated by this curiosity, Nielsen applied to be one of eight student interns for the prestigious Next Gen Innovation Impact internship through America’s Cultivation Corridor. This program offers students a semester-long opportunity to collaborate with agriculture and research leaders on projects aimed at advancing the agriculture and food systems in Iowa and worldwide.

Nielsen partnered with Megan Clark during the internship, focusing on identifying 20 innovations in the animal science sector. Both interns’ backgrounds in animal production made them well-suited for this assignment. Their research centered on health, sustainability, and efficiency in livestock production. Together, they developed comprehensive marketing strategies and presented their findings to the board of directors and industry professionals.

The internship also included industry tours, providing participants with exposure to companies they might not have encountered otherwise. Nielsen particularly valued the visit to Chevron Renewable Energy Group (Chevron REG), where she gained insights into the renewable energy sector and its connection to animal science. “I was able to gain new insights into a different area of the industry, which highlights the importance of experiences like the Next Gen internship,” Nielsen shared.

Set to graduate in May 2025, Nielsen plans to apply the perspectives and lessons gained from her internship to her future career. “With many of us being so specialized, it’s important to identify and highlight innovations and find the intersections between our specializations and broader advancements in agriculture,” she reflected.

As Nielsen embarks on her professional journey, may she continue to explore the intersections between traditional practices and innovative solutions, shaping a bright future for the agriculture industry.