KAYLEA MCDONALD
Sale Creek,TN
Summary
I am a recent graduate of the University of Tennessee with a Bachelor of Science in Animal Science and a concentration in Bioscience. I am passionate about serving the agricultural community and committed to supporting the people and natural resources that sustain it. Driven by a strong work ethic, a dedication to lifelong learning, and a desire to make a meaningful impact through education, outreach, and conservation, I strive to serve others while continuing to grow professionally. I strongly believe agriculture is the foundation of our future and hope to inspire that same appreciation and commitment in future generations.
Overview
7
7
years of professional experience
Work History
Agricultural Worker
McDonald Enterprises
Sale Creek, Tennessee
05.2023 - Current
- Operated equipment such as tractors and skidsteers for different purposes, such as hay and cattle production.
- Implemented biosecurity protocols to maintain farm safety and prevent disease.
- Equipment cleaning and maintenance
Departmental Research Assistant
University of Tennessee
Knoxville, USA
01.2026 - 05.2026
- Assisted in poultry disease research on field detection of Salmonella pathogens, trained in wet lab techniques and diagnostic equipment to support development of rapid on-farm pathogen detection tools.
Animal Science Extension Intern
University of Tennessee
Knoxville, USA
05.2025 - 08.2025
- Facilitated the planning and delivery of over 10 livestock and equine programs, including engaging 4-H events and dynamic educational outreach that reached over 300 participants, while developing impactful training materials and supporting successful state events.
- Shadowed different county agents for a "Day in the Life" experience
- Assisted in the review of project area guides
Lab Assistant
University of Tennessee
Knoxville, USA
05.2024 - 05.2025
- Collected and analyzed fertility, welfare, and behavioral data from breeder pens.
- Oversaw the daily care of research birds, ensuring optimal feeding and hydration, while meticulously observing and documenting nesting behaviors to enhance research outcomes.
- Assisted in writing abstracts for research conferences.
Aviagen Summer Intern
Aviagen
Crossville, USA
05.2024 - 08.2024
- Conducted farm necropsies, investigating causes of culling and mortality.
- Gained hands-on experience in the day-to-day operations of rear and grow farms, including health monitoring and facility management.
- Developed disposal methods for HPAI for specific farms.
Veterinary Assistant
Mountain Top Veterinary services
Dunlap, Tennessee
06.2023 - 12.2023
- Maintained cleanliness and organization of examination rooms and surgical areas daily.
- Monitored animal behavior and vital signs during recovery post-surgery or treatment.
- Restrained animals during examination or treatment procedures using appropriate techniques according to species size and temperament.
Poultry Farm Manager
B & A Farms
Pikeville, USA
08.2019 - 08.2022
- Mastered all operational aspects, including feeding, monitoring houses, employing staff, operating equipment, and performing repairs to ensure smooth farm management during staff absences.
- Supervised a team of over seven employees, providing mentorship and training to enhance productivity and efficiency.
- Built a reputation for punctuality, reliability, and a strong work ethic.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Animal Science, Bioscience
University of Tennessee
TN05-2026
General Education -
Chattanooga State Community College
TN01-2022
Skills
- Animal handling
- Creative problem-solving
- Leadership
- Time management
- Data collection
- Data analysis
- Microsoft Excel
- Biosecurity protocol implementation
- Written and Verbal Communications
- Project management
- Educational outreach
- Experience writing impact statements
Activities
- President of the UT Poultry Science Club
- Member of the Pre-Veterinary Club
- Past participant in the UT Horse Judging Team
- Gamma Sigma Delta Member
- Tennessee Wildlife Federation Volunteer
Certifications And Achievements
- OSHA 10-hour general industry safety (veterinary)
- 4-time River Valley Ag-Credit Scholarship recipient
- 4-time Tennessee Poultry Association Scholarship recipient
- 3-Time Dean's List student
- Poultry Science Club Leadership Award
- 2023-2024 National FFA Finalist, Poultry Production Proficiency
- 2-Time Poultry Science Club Industry Excellence award
- 2025- Child Protective Training
- Tennessee Master Beef Producer
Timeline
Departmental Research Assistant
University of Tennessee
01.2026 - 05.2026
Animal Science Extension Intern
University of Tennessee
05.2025 - 08.2025
Lab Assistant
University of Tennessee
05.2024 - 05.2025
Aviagen Summer Intern
Aviagen
05.2024 - 08.2024
Veterinary Assistant
Mountain Top Veterinary services
06.2023 - 12.2023
Agricultural Worker
McDonald Enterprises
05.2023 - Current
Poultry Farm Manager
B & A Farms
08.2019 - 08.2022
Bachelor of Science - Animal Science, Bioscience
University of Tennessee
General Education -
Chattanooga State Community College