Bridging the Gap Between Education and Industry

A passion for agriculture can emerge from unexpected places. For Coleman Simpson, it all began in a high school greenhouse. Inspired by his FFA advisors, Elizabeth Pack and John Fortner, Simpson developed a love for agriculture that would guide his academic and professional journey. This passion eventually brought him to NC State University, where he earned dual bachelor’s degrees, a master’s in agricultural and extension education, and a graduate certificate in leadership in agriculture and life sciences. These achievements set the stage for a career focused on shaping future leaders.

Today, Simpson serves as the assistant director of career Services and external relations for the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS) Career Services Office. In this role, he connects students with career opportunities and helps industry leaders access top talent. “I love my role because I get to work with a lot of different people who are genuinely excited to work with our students,” he said. “I also love seeing those lightbulb moments when a student connects their studies to their career goals.”

Simpson’s path at NC State wasn’t always smooth. In his junior year, he felt out of place in the CALS community. However, guidance from faculty members like Jackie Bruce and Katie McKee changed everything. “Meeting Bruce and McKee helped me find a supportive community and impactful curriculum,” he explained. “They encouraged me to switch my major to agricultural science, and I owe them a huge thank-you for their guidance and support.”

This support extended beyond his undergraduate years, inspiring him to return to NC State for a master’s degree and a graduate certificate. Through his coursework, Coleman developed a deeper understanding of leadership, shifting his perspective from viewing it as a set of skills to recognizing it as a behavior and mindset. “NC State taught me to rethink leadership and reflect on the kind of person I wanted to be,” he said.

In his current role, Simpson focuses on bridging the gap between students and the workforce. He organizes career fairs, networking events, and employer panels to ensure students have access to meaningful career opportunities. Additionally, he leads the CALS Alumni for Student Success (CASS) Career Coaching program, pairing alumni with current students to foster professional growth. “College is a time for exploration, but it’s also about preparing for life after graduation,” he said. “I take pride in helping students find fulfilling careers while connecting employers with the talent they need.”

The importance of this work isn’t lost on him. As the agriculture and life sciences industries continue to expand, ensuring students are well-prepared to meet workforce demands is critical. “The number of jobs in ag and life sciences grows every year,” he said. “I’m passionate about making sure all of our students have opportunities for success after graduation.”

Simpson is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in educational leadership, policy, and human development with a concentration in higher education opportunity, equity, and justice. His goal is to transition into a leadership role in higher education or a faculty position focused on research related to educational access and outcomes at land-grant universities. “In the next five years, I want to be in a space where I can make a positive impact on students and educational systems,” he shared.

When asked what drew him to this path, he credited his love of higher education and student development. “I live for those lightbulb moments when a student sees the connection between their studies and their career,” he said. “It’s incredibly rewarding to work in an area where we can directly impact students’ success in and out of the classroom.” Throughout his journey, Simpson has drawn inspiration from mentors, colleagues, and students alike. He expressed particular gratitude to Sara Lane, his current supervisor, for her investment in his professional growth. “Sara has been instrumental in my training and development, helping me grow my skills in higher education,” he said.

Simpson finds inspiration in his students and their drive to succeed. “Working in higher education means getting to see the next generation of leaders grow,” he said. “It’s a privilege to be part of that process.” From his early days in the greenhouse to his current role as a leader in agricultural education, Coleman Simpson embodies the values of NC State. His dedication to building connections, fostering leadership, and empowering students underscores the impact of the Wolfpack community.