Samuel Velasquez
Marksville,LA
Summary
Resourceful Agriculture Coordinator with a strong commitment to Tribal food sovereignty and a passion for empowering Indigenous communities. Experienced in establishing and leading Agriculture programs, with a keen understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by Tribal nations in enhancing food security and sustainable livelihoods.
Possessing excellent interpersonal skills and a background in Anthropology, I communicate effectively and respectfully with diverse populations. Proven track record of leading farm operations, managing budgets, and collaborating with organizations such as the United South & Eastern Tribes (USET), Intertribal Agriculture Council (IAC), USDA, and NRCS.
Skilled in sustainable farming practices, crop management, and agricultural policy compliance. Adept at problem-solving and teamwork, I strive to achieve project goals and improve operational outcomes.
Overview
4
4
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Agriculture Coordinator
Tunica-Biloxi
LA
05.2023 - Current
- Establish an organic sustainable farm on the reservation and grow food to distribute for tribal citizens.
- Working with the LFPA (Local Food Purchasing Assistance Cooperative Agreement Program) granted to the Tribe by the USDA, overseeing the procurement of produce and meats from local farmers, ranchers, and fishermen.
- Leading the distribution of LFPA-procured foods to Tribal citizens.
- Management and creation of budgets for Tribal Farm and LFPA programs.
- Established and maintained extensive contacts with local producers and Tribal food suppliers, fostering strong community relationships to enhance food sourcing initiatives.
- Help with preserving cultural practices and establishing food sovereignty.
Supervisor
UPS
Countryside, IL
10.2021 - 03.2023
- Managed workflow and optimized productivity by directing workers to appropriate tasks and trailers, incorporating strong leadership and organizational skills
- Maintained open communication channels between workers and upper management to ensure targets were met and fostered a positive work environment
Order Fulfillment & Horticulture Specialist
Cresco
Joliet, IL
04.2021 - 07.2021
- Oversaw accurate labeling, packaging, and shipment of Cresco products to appropriate dispensaries, ensuring the highest quality standards
- Collaborated with multiple departments, including cultivation and quality assurance, to fulfill product needs and maintain inventory
- Implemented innovative horticulture techniques to improve plant health, vigor, and yield within the facility
- Provided guidance and support for plant care, monitoring, and pest management strategies, enhancing overall facility performance
- Assisted with facility cleaning and implemented best practices for maintaining a sanitary and efficient work environment
Assistant Grower & Order Fulfillment
Chicago Aquaponics
Elkgrove, IL
10.2020 - 04.2021
- Collaborated with the Head Grower to implement advanced cultivation techniques, boosting hemp plant yield and quality in an eco-friendly aquaponics facility
- Developed and executed plant maintenance schedules, including cloning, pruning, and watering, to optimize plant health and growth
- Monitored and adjusted chemical levels in aquaponic tanks, ensuring optimal growing conditions and minimizing plant stress
- Conducted daily data collection and analysis of pH, oxygen levels, and temperatures to maintain the ideal environment for plant growth
- Instituted cleanliness and sterilization protocols, reducing the risk of contamination and disease in the facility, and maintained inventory of supplies
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Anthropology
University of Minnesota - Twin Cities
Minneapolis, MN08.2021
Associate of Applied Science - Horticulture
College of DuPage
Glen Ellyn, IL05.2021
Skills
- Team-oriented and adept at building morale with coworkers
- Dedicated to completing tasks and achieving goals
- Ability to handle stressful work conditions and adapt to changing environments
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Eager to expand knowledge within the workplace and continue learning
Certification
- Certified Produce Safety Alliance Training (2024)
WEBSITES, PORTFOLIOS, PROFILES
- LinkedIn -Samuel Velasquez
- College of DuPage Portfolios- Samuel Velasquez
- References available upon request.
Timeline
Agriculture Coordinator
Tunica-Biloxi
05.2023 - Current
Supervisor
UPS
10.2021 - 03.2023
Order Fulfillment & Horticulture Specialist
Cresco
04.2021 - 07.2021
Assistant Grower & Order Fulfillment
Chicago Aquaponics
10.2020 - 04.2021
Bachelor of Arts - Anthropology
University of Minnesota - Twin Cities
Associate of Applied Science - Horticulture
College of DuPage
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