Gray Larson
Fort Collins
Summary
With 16+ years of equine experience, I specialize in utilizing interactive learning strategies to foster direct experiences with agricultural practices. My work focuses on demystifying farming and food production, making the industry more accessible and relatable to diverse audiences. By designing hands-on educational programs, I bridge the gap between agriculture and the public, ensuring that all individuals gain a deeper understanding of the industry’s significance, sustainability, and impact
Overview
5
5
years of professional experience
Work History
Intern Equine Trainer & Riding Intructor
Laughing Buck Farms
12.2024 - Current
- Supported staff members in their daily tasks, reducing workload burden including lessons, conditioning and Farm School
- Conditioned new horses by implementing a customized training program, and prepare horses to join the lesson program.
- Promoted a fun learning environment that fostered a deep appreciation for the sport while improving riding skills of adaptive and non-adaptive riders.
Professional Fae at Santa Fe Renaissance Faire
Ingrid Stitt Wilson
09.2023 - Current
- Portray a whimsical fairy character, engaging guests of all ages with immersive storytelling, theatrical improvisation, and interactive performances.
- Design and maintain elaborate garb, apothecary stand, and defined character while also following the atmosphere of the faire.
- Ensure that attendees have an unforgettable experience while also monitoring and following through with safety protocols.
Groundskeeper and Mantinence
Mythos Equestrian/ Wild Rose Mustang Rescue
01.2024 - 06.2024
- managed and maintained paddocks and living areas for a herd of 50+ horses, ensuring a safe and clean environment.
- consistently monitored equine health, promptly identifying and reporting any concerns for timely intervention.
- conducted regular inspections and upkeep of fencing, farm equipment, and facilities to ensure optimal safety and functionality.
Program Specialist
Clayton Youth Enrichment, Darcy Massey
06.2022 - 08.2022
- Planned and monitored curriculum and program activities and liaised with teachers to create fun and engaging learning experiences.
- Engaged with parents and families to build positive relationships for children to thrive.
- Worked with children of varying age, interest, skill, and developmental levels.
Seasonal Sales Associate
Earthbound Trading CO, James Mason
10.2021 - 01.2022
- Answered customer questions about metaphysical arts, accessories, and recommended products to fit needs. .
- Rotated stock and restocked shelves to maintain product availability and store appearance.
- Cleaned, organized, and shelved store during open hours and closing
Equine Trainer
Racata Trails, Randy Sherrod
09.2021 - 10.2021
- Managed feeding, rugging, and general stable procedures, communicating issues or significant maintenance requirements to management when necessary.
- Received training directives from horse and stable owners and provided oral and written reports of horse progress toward training objectives.
- Modified undesirable behaviors with the use of successful and safe behavior modification techniques.
Intern Equine Trainer
Jordan Gilchrist
10.2019 - 07.2021
- Coached and trained students in basic care and maintenance of horses and stables in addition to riding technique, form and skills.
- Taught students show jumping, eventing and dressage, drilling technique and driving improvement through constructive criticism.
- Instilled basics of horsemanship and riding in beginners, first-time or occasional riders, refining the knowledge and skills of more advanced riders.
Intern
Lone Star Park Equine Hospital, David Gilchrist
10.2020 - 04.2021
- Cleaned and disinfected exam areas, surgical equipment, and kennels to prevent diseases and control odors.
- Restocked surgical and office supplies to keep all necessary materials easily accessible.
- Processed new patients and updated client records with key information using standardized registration systems and encrypted databases.
IEA Team Captain
Jordan Gilchrist
04.2020 - 03.2021
- Acted as a positive role model to set the tone for the program and enhanced leadership credibility with teammates and coaches.
- Maintained poise, optimism and bounced back quickly after mistakes to show teammates how to respond to negative situations.
- Demonstrated strong leadership and communication skills, effectively motivating and encouraging peers.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Agriculture Education
Colorado State University
Fort Collins, CO06.2025
Bachelor of Science - Agriculture Education
West Texas A&M University
Canyon, TX06.2022
Vocational Training Certification - Agricultural Endorsement
Keller Center For Advanced Learning
Keller, TX06.2021
High School Diploma -
Keller High School
Keller, TX06.2021
Skills
- Positive Reinforcement Strategies
- FFA Experience
- Event coordination experience
- Farm Work and Knowledge
- Equestrian Culture
- Training program development
- Strong Communication and Interpersonal Skills
- Stable management
- Equine first aid
- Continuing education commitment
- Client relationship building
- Calming anxious riders
Additional Information
IEA showmanship award CPR certification
Zone 7 Clayton youth enrichment
Feb 2019 June 2022
First aid certification Recognizing and reporting child abuse and neglect
Clayton Youth enrichment Clayton Youth Enrichment
June 2022 June 2022
Timeline
Intern Equine Trainer & Riding Intructor
Laughing Buck Farms
12.2024 - Current
Groundskeeper and Mantinence
Mythos Equestrian/ Wild Rose Mustang Rescue
01.2024 - 06.2024
Professional Fae at Santa Fe Renaissance Faire
Ingrid Stitt Wilson
09.2023 - Current
Program Specialist
Clayton Youth Enrichment, Darcy Massey
06.2022 - 08.2022
Seasonal Sales Associate
Earthbound Trading CO, James Mason
10.2021 - 01.2022
Equine Trainer
Racata Trails, Randy Sherrod
09.2021 - 10.2021
Intern
Lone Star Park Equine Hospital, David Gilchrist
10.2020 - 04.2021
IEA Team Captain
Jordan Gilchrist
04.2020 - 03.2021
Intern Equine Trainer
Jordan Gilchrist
10.2019 - 07.2021
Bachelor of Science - Agriculture Education
Colorado State University
Bachelor of Science - Agriculture Education
West Texas A&M University
Vocational Training Certification - Agricultural Endorsement
Keller Center For Advanced Learning
High School Diploma -
Keller High School
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