KRISTEN ELROD
Versailles
Summary
Agricultural professional with expertise in greenhouse and plant production systems. Proven experience in greenhouse operations, plant care, irrigation, environmental controls, crop planning, and staff supervision. Committed to maximizing efficiency, sustainability, and high-quality crop production.
Overview
7
7
years of professional experience
Work History
Farm Manager
The Kentucky Castle
Versailles
06.2019 - Current
- Managed daily farm operations and coordinated staff activities.
- Hired, trained, and supervised seasonal workers, planned crop schedules, and improved practices and safety with employees.
- Expanded farm activities with tours and events, enhanced crop yield through better irrigation and fertilization, and improved animal health with regular monitoring and veterinary care.
- Implemented pest control measures to protect crops from infestations.
- Oversaw crop rotation and soil management practices for sustainable farming.
- Developed schedules for planting, harvesting, and maintenance tasks.
- Monitored weather conditions to optimize planting and harvesting times.
- Organized the purchase of supplies such as fertilizer, seed, feed, and other necessary items.
- While in school, I worked 32-40 hours a week, 40+ when school was not in session.
Student Teaching
Madison Southern High School
Richmond
08.2025 - 12.2025
- Led daily instruction, managed classroom and lab environments, and incorporated project-based learning across ag courses.
- Developed instructional materials aligned with curriculum standards and goals.
- Integrated technology to support interactive learning experiences.
- Evaluated student work, provided feedback, and tracked their progress over time.
- Collaborated with teachers to enhance classroom management strategies.
- Worked with students on FFA activities, including SAEs, CDE preparation, and chapter events.
Veterinarian Technician
Afford-A-Vet Animal Clinic
Lexington
09.2020 - 06.2022
- Contributed to animal well-being by assisting in surgical procedures, post-operative care, and collaborating with veterinarians on diagnoses and treatment plans.
- Administered medications and vaccinations according to veterinary staff instructions.
- Assisted veterinary staff in laboratory procedures and conducted diagnostic tests to support animal health.
- Ensured clean, safe environment for animals through effective teamwork and adherence to safety protocols.
- Enhanced clinic operations by organizing patient records and delivering exceptional customer service.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Career And Technical Education
University of Kentucky
Lexington, KY12-2025
High School Diploma - Lexington, KY
Bryan Station High School
Lexington, KY05-2019
Skills
- Crop management
- Crop health management
- Crop irrigation
- Pest control
- Fertilizer application
- Seed purchasing
- Farm budgeting
- Sustainable agriculture
- Organic farming
- Animal Husbandry
- Equipment Maintenance
- Team collaboration
Early Field Experiences
- Attended 2024 NAAE FAST Symposium
- Managed and mentored summer middle school program at The Kentucky Castle- 5 years
- Assisted in facilitating the UK Field Day- 3 years
- Taught Girl Scout troop in gardening- 2 years
Timeline
Student Teaching
Madison Southern High School
08.2025 - 12.2025
Veterinarian Technician
Afford-A-Vet Animal Clinic
09.2020 - 06.2022
Farm Manager
The Kentucky Castle
06.2019 - Current
Bachelor of Science - Career And Technical Education
University of Kentucky
High School Diploma - Lexington, KY
Bryan Station High School