Employee Spotlight: Derek Shifflett

Job Title: Information Systems Specialist
Location: Verona Operations Center
Tenure: 1.5 years
Briefly describe your involvement in agriculture. Growing up we kind of had a mini farm, where we raised a horse, some pigs and chickens basically as pets alongside our dogs and cats.
Tell us about your family. My wife and I have a wonderful little boy who keeps us busy and laughing at all times.

Tell us about your pets. We have two dogs, Odin and Lyanna. They are German Shepherd-Husky mix and are actually mother and son and inseparable.
What is your favorite song or artist? My favorite artist is Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit. He has a way of telling a story in a song that is so relatable, it makes it seem as if it's your own memories.
What is your favorite movie, or quote from a movie? My favorite movies are the Lord of the Rings trilogy and they have some of my favorite quotes. One being "It's the small things, everyday deeds of ordinary folk that keeps the darkness at bay."
What is your favorite season? Spring is my favorite season. The world coming back to life around you is energizing after a cold winter.
Tell us about your hobbies. I enjoy spending time with my family, Cincinnati Bengals football, reading, and playing games with friends.
What is your favorite place you've ever visited? We went to Bora Bora for our honeymoon and it was stunning.What was your first job? As a teenager I helped out at the turkey houses beside our house on weekends.
What is the most interesting or favorite aspect of your job? I enjoy the variety of challenges that each day brings, and the problem solving process to conquer each of those challenges.
What are your favorite weekend activities? Depending on the time of year my weekends would ideally consist of watching football, kayaking, spending time with family, going to local breweries and listening to live music.
If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why? Teleportation. No more commuting to work, or travel time for vacations.