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Regional working groups as a mentorship model for early career success

Early Career Development

Caitlin Justesen
Livestock Extension Agent
University of Florida
Ocala

Abstract

Becoming an Extension agent offers a uniquely rewarding career defined by high professional autonomy, diverse responsibilities, and the opportunity to make meaningful community impact. Yet for early career agents, this same autonomy can create uncertainty, stress, and a fear of making missteps. With no single “right way” to approach programming, new agents must navigate a landscape where choices are abundant, expectations are broad, and mistakes are an inevitable part of growth. This raises an important question: how can the Extension system better support new professionals as they chart their own path? Regional working groups provide one of the most effective structures for early career development. By connecting new agents with experienced colleagues who share similar programmatic areas, these groups create a built in support network that reduces isolation and accelerates learning. Through collaborative planning, shared resources, and opportunities to participate in large, often statewide initiatives, new agents gain exposure to high impact programming while building confidence in their own abilities. Over time, these experiences empower them to design and lead major programs independently.This presentation explores the role of the Central Florida Livestock Agent regional working group as a mentorship model that strengthens early career success. It highlights how intentional collaboration fosters professional growth, enhances program quality, and contributes to long term retention. By investing in structured peer support, Extension can ensure that new agents not only find their footing but thrive in a career built on autonomy, innovation, and service.

Authors: Caitlin Justesen, Andrea Lazzari, Ashley Stonecipher, Laura Bennett, Morgan Yoder, Rachel Fernandez, JK Yarborough, Jonael Bosques, Tim Wilson, George Laibl, Alyssa Schortinghouse, Alexandra Bennett, Hannah Baker, Stacy Strickland
  1. Caitlin Justesen Livestock Extension Agent, University of Florida, Florida, 34470
  2. Andrea Lazzari Agriculture Extension Agent, University of Florida, Florida, 32960
  3. Ashley Stonecipher Agriculture Extension Agent, University of Florida, Florida, 32724
  4. Laura Bennett Agriculture Extension Agent, University of Florida, Florida, 33525
  5. Morgan Yoder Agriculture Extension Agent, University of Florida, Florida, 32926
  6. Rachel Fernandez Agriculture Extension Agent, University of Florida, Florida, 34744
  7. JK Yarborough Livestock Extension Agent, University of Florida , Florida, 32812
  8. Jonael Bosques Agriculture Extension Agent, University of Florida , Florida, 33873
  9. Tim Wilson Agriculture Extension Agent , University of Florida , Florida, 32092
  10. George Laibl Agriculture Extension Agent , University of Florida , Florida, 32110
  11. Alyssa Schortinghouse Agriculture Extension Agent , University of Florida , Florida, 34461
  12. Alexandra Bennett Livestock Extension Agent, University of Florida , Florida, 33875
  13. Hannah Baker State Specialist Beef and Forage Economist, University of Florida , Florida, 33865
  14. Stacy Strickland Agriculture Extension Agent , University of Florida, Florida, 34604