I am from a small hog and cattle farm in eastern North Carolina operated by my grandfather, where I learned about the importance of hard work and the interconnectedness of our environment, health, and actions. The time not spent on or around the family farm or school was often spent at the upholstery shop that my grandmother worked and managed, where I learned how textiles can be used in unique and interesting ways while developing my curiosity for problem solving. As I continue my academic and entreprenuerial journey, I am finding ways to utilize my love for and background in textiles to solve problems in our environment and agriculture systems.