Jessica Whicker
Summary
Dedicated animal care professional with expertise in building strong relationships and providing safe horsemanship instruction. Proficient in effective team collaboration and coordination of member involvement, with a focus on ensuring safe environments for both animals and riders. Committed to animal well-being and consistently demonstrating excellence in all responsibilities.
Overview
1
1
Certification
4
4
years of professional experience
Work History
Part-Time Barn Assistant
Lemon Drop Retirement Farm
Franklin, TN
06.2026 - Current
- Assist in daily animal care routines, supporting overall well-being of equine residents
- Operate farm machinery to support daily agricultural tasks
- Maintain clean and safe environments for animals and visitors
Lesson Assistant
Saddle Up!
Franklin, TN
05.2025 - Current
- Provide support to students, volunteers, instructors, therapists, and farm staff
- Assist with horse care and lesson preparations to ensure smooth and safe experiences for all participants and volunteers
- Maintain clean and organized arena, tack room, and crosstie space to promote a safe and efficient working environment
Equine Event Management
Various
02.2023 - Current
- Scribe at a local and national level for recognized breed and discipline associations such as AQHA, APHA, and NRSHA
- Facilitate barn management for youth outreach events including clinics and horse shows
- Oversee personal and team equine care responsibilities during lessons and show travel
Private Farm/Animal Caretaker
Freelance as available
08.2022 - Current
- Operate an independent, referral-based farm, home, and pet sitting business, establishing long-term client trust
- Follow precise feeding instructions and schedules for animals under care
- Communicate effectively with animal owners regarding concerns
Instructor and Barn Staff
Creeks Edge Farm
Lebanon, TN
08.2022 - 08.2025
- Instructed children in safe horsemanship methods, fostering confidence and skill both on the ground and in the saddle
- Built positive relationships with clients, enhancing overall experience and engagement
- Collaborated with staff to efficiently complete barn work and coordinate horse use, ensuring smooth operations
Education
B.S. in Horse Science - May 2026 - Minors: Neuroscience, University Honors
Middle Tennessee State University
07-2026
Skills
- Animal husbandry
- Equine management
- Event coordination
- Team collaboration
- Problem-solving
- Fostering relationships
Leadership And Volunteer Work
- MTSU Equestrian Team, 2022-2026 - Event Coordinator 2025/2026, Treasurer, 2023/2024/2025
- MTSU Horse Judging Team, 2023-2026 - President 2025/2026, Vice President 2024/2025, Treasurer, 2023/2024
- MTSU Stock Horse Team, 2024-2026 - President 2025/2026
- Center of Equine Recovery for Veterans, Aug 2024 - May 2025
- Nashville Praise Symphony, Feb 2022 - May 2024
Certification
- NHJTCA Equine Management and Evaluation Certification - 2022
- Beef Quality Assurance Certification - 2025
Accomplishments
- NRSHA Novice Amateur All-Around Reserve National Champion - 2026
- NRSHA Novice Amateur Ranch Riding National Champion - 2026
- MTSU Horse Judging Team, Best Mentor - 2026
- MTSU Outstanding Horse Science Student - 2023, 2024, 2025, 2026
- American FFA Degree - 2024
- National Horse Judging Team Coaches' Association Distinguished Academic All-American Award - 2024
- Hale Moss Livestock Scholarship - 2022
Timeline
Part-Time Barn Assistant
Lemon Drop Retirement Farm
06.2026 - Current
Lesson Assistant
Saddle Up!
05.2025 - Current
Equine Event Management
Various
02.2023 - Current
Private Farm/Animal Caretaker
Freelance as available
08.2022 - Current
Instructor and Barn Staff
Creeks Edge Farm
08.2022 - 08.2025
B.S. in Horse Science - May 2026 - Minors: Neuroscience, University Honors
Middle Tennessee State University