{"id":96791,"date":"2025-02-17T08:23:00","date_gmt":"2025-02-17T13:23:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/horticultural-science\/news\/cals-competition-teams-level-up-your-college-experience\/"},"modified":"2025-12-10T13:40:22","modified_gmt":"2025-12-10T18:40:22","slug":"cals-competition-teams-level-up-your-college-experience","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/horticultural-science\/news\/cals-competition-teams-level-up-your-college-experience\/","title":{"rendered":"CALS Competition Teams Level Up Your College Experience"},"content":{"rendered":"\n\n\n\n\n<p>Students at the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences have the opportunity to compete against the best collegiate teams in the nation, solve real-world challenges and build lifelong connections while they learn.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>NC&#160;State University\u2019s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS) offers over <a href=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/students\/cals-opportunities\/clubs-and-organizations\/#competition\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">30 student competition teams<\/a>, with topics ranging from insects to soil to robotics.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>CALS\u2019 competition teams foster academic excellence, boost career readiness and enhance well-being and belonging.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p id=\"top\">Explore the following teams that help students grow, succeed and find community.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"#agribusiness\">Agribusiness Sales Team<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#entomology\">Entomology Games<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#food-science\">Food Science Club IFTSA College Bowl Team<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#hortpack\">HortPack<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#packpullers\">Pack Pullers<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#robo\">RoboPack<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#soil\">Soil Judging Team<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"agribusiness\">Agribusiness Sales Team: Crafting the Perfect Pitch<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Agribusiness-1024x576.jpg\" alt=\"Group of students in classroom studying at table\" class=\"wp-image-996532\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>NC&#160;State\u2019s Agribusiness Sales Team debuted at the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nama.org\/student-sales-competition.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">National Agri-Marketing Association<\/a> Sales Competition in 2024. The competition tests individual contestants\u2019 basic sales call skills and performance. Students Josh Miller and Samantha Eubanks finished first and third in the finals.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Supported by the <a href=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/departments\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Department of Agricultural Resource Economics<\/a>, students are selected for the team through Professional Selling in the Modern Ag Industry, a sales workshop taught by <a href=\"https:\/\/calsboards.cals.ncsu.edu\/people\/aaron-messer\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Aaron Messer<\/a>, area business manager at Bayer Crop Science. Under Messer\u2019s leadership, the team is preparing for long-term success and a return to the national stage in April 2025.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cHis coaching has been instrumental in refining sales presentations and developing essential skills,\u201d says Fleming Fulford, an <a href=\"https:\/\/catalog.ncsu.edu\/undergraduate\/agriculture-life-sciences\/agricultural-resource-economics\/agricultural-business-management-bs\/#text\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">agriculture business management<\/a> student. After seeing the team&#8217;s success, she was inspired to take the sales workshop.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cBecause sales is such a valuable business function and skill set, I decided to take the sales workshop in 2025,\u201d Fulford says. \u201cLast year\u2019s team inspired me to take the workshop to make this year\u2019s team.\u201d The team adds value as she prepares for her future career, competes academically and embraces \u201cThink and Do\u201d spirit of the Wolfpack.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to Get Involved<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Interested students should sign up for Professional Selling in the Modern Ag Industry for the fall semester. After completing the workshop, students can apply for the sales team.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"#top\">Back to Top \u2191<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"entomology\">Entomology Games: Buzzing with Curiosity<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/NCSU_Entomology_Games_Team_national_competing_ESA2024-1-1024x576.jpg\" alt=\"academic game contestants on a stage\" class=\"wp-image-996574\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">NC&#160;State students competing at the Entomological Society of America Annual Meeting games in Phoenix, Arizona, November 2024<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>For four decades, NC&#160;State has showcased its buzzworthy expertise in entomology through the annual <a href=\"https:\/\/www.entsoc.org\/events\/annual-meeting\/entomology-games\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Entomology Games<\/a>. Launched in 1982 by the Entomological Society of America\u2019s North Central Branch, the competition now draws college teams nationwide.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Supported by the <a href=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/entomology-and-plant-pathology\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology<\/a>, the NC&#160;State team has won at least 15 Southeastern Branch titles (a record for the region) and secured second place at the 2024 national games in Phoenix, Arizona. For over 40 years, the team has claimed three national championships and five runner-up finishes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<section class=\"wp-block-ncst-thumbnail-gallery\" id=\"ncst-thumbnail-gallery0\"><div class=\"thumbnail-gallery__viewport\"><ul class=\"thumbnail-gallery__container ncst-gallery\"><li class=\"thumbnail-gallery__item\" data-gallery-item=\"0\"><figure><a href=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/NCSU_Entomology_Games_Team_branch_competing_2024-scaled.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/NCSU_Entomology_Games_Team_branch_competing_2024-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"Students in white t-shirts sitting at a table\" data-id=\"996555\" data-link=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/NCSU_Entomology_Games_Team_branch_competing_2024-scaled.jpg\" class=\"wp-image-996555\" \/><\/a><figcaption>NC&#160;State students competing at the Entomological Society of America Southeastern Branch games in 2024. From left to right: Dayvion Adams, Regan Daniels, Ariel Tarrand and Zachary Everson <\/figcaption><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"thumbnail-gallery__item\" data-gallery-item=\"1\"><figure><a href=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/NCSU_Entomology_Games_Team_SEB2003.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/NCSU_Entomology_Games_Team_SEB2003-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"Magazine clipping with people sitting at table behind a trophy\" data-id=\"996553\" data-link=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/NCSU_Entomology_Games_Team_SEB2003.jpg\" class=\"wp-image-996553\" \/><\/a><figcaption>An article highlighting the team&#8217;s Entomological Society of America Southeastern Branch win in 2003.\n<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"thumbnail-gallery__item\" data-gallery-item=\"2\"><figure><a href=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/NCSU_Entomology_Games_Team_SEB2002-scaled.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/NCSU_Entomology_Games_Team_SEB2002-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"Group of young adults holding certificates in front of bookcase\" data-id=\"996552\" data-link=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/NCSU_Entomology_Games_Team_SEB2002-scaled.jpg\" class=\"wp-image-996552\" \/><\/a><figcaption>2002 NC&#160;State team that placed second nationally. From left to right: Wes Watson (coach), Juan Cabrera, Tracy Rennie, Matt Bertone, Chad Gore, Dawn Calibeo and Jim Harper (former department head)<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"thumbnail-gallery__item\" data-gallery-item=\"3\"><figure><a href=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/NCSU_Entomology_Games_Team_SEB2024-scaled.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/NCSU_Entomology_Games_Team_SEB2024-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"Students in white t-shirts on brick pathway\" data-id=\"996551\" data-link=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/NCSU_Entomology_Games_Team_SEB2024-scaled.jpg\" class=\"wp-image-996551\" \/><\/a><figcaption>NC&#160;State team at the Entomological Society of America Southeastern Branch games in 2024. From left to right: Ariel Tarrand, Zachary Everson, Matt Bertone (coach), Regan Daniels, Kaylin Lewandowski and Dayvion Adams<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"thumbnail-gallery__item\" data-gallery-item=\"4\"><figure><a href=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/SEB_Traveling_Trophy-scaled.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/SEB_Traveling_Trophy-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"tall trophy\" data-id=\"996550\" data-link=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/SEB_Traveling_Trophy-scaled.jpg\" class=\"wp-image-996550\" \/><\/a><figcaption>A retired trophy housed at NC&#160;State<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/li><\/ul><\/div><\/section>\n\n\n\n<p>Experienced as both a competitor and coach, <a href=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/entomology-and-plant-pathology\/people\/maberto2\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Matt Bertone<\/a>, director of the Plant Disease and Insect Clinic, noted that some teams rely on a standout player.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cWhat makes our current lineup so great is that the members have their specialties with abundant knowledge, competitive skill and enthusiasm,\u201d he says. \u201cIt&#8217;s rare to have a team that is so well-rounded and able to tackle the array of questions they receive. They\u2019re truly formidable and a complete joy to coach.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The games help the team members build friendships, connect at national meetings and make learning more engaging. Challenging other top students nationwide fuels their competitive drive and boosts confidence. The games also unite the department, sparking pride and excitement \u2014 especially when they win!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to get involved<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Interested students can visit the departmental <a href=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/entomology-and-plant-pathology\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">web page<\/a> or contact Matt Bertone at <a href=\"mailto:maberto2@ncsu.edu\">maberto2@ncsu.edu<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"#top\">Back to Top \u2191<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"food-science\">Food Science Club: Rebuilding for a Comeback<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Food-Science-Club-1024x576.jpg\" alt=\"Group of students standing in front of a white board\" class=\"wp-image-996531\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Since 1985, the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ift.org\/community\/students\/competitions-and-awards\/college-bowl\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Institute of Food Technologists Student Association (IFTSA) College Bowl Competition<\/a> has tested students&#8217; knowledge in food chemistry, microbiology, engineering, food laws and IFT-related trivia.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>After the pandemic disrupted the NC&#160;State\u2019s IFTSA College Bowl team\u2019s activities, a group of first-year students from the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncsufsc.com\/basic-01\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Food Science Club<\/a> rallied to revive the team. With their first regional competition at Virginia Tech in March 2025, they\u2019re eager to prove themselves and earn a spot at this summer\u2019s national competition in Chicago, Illinois.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Since 2000, NC&#160;State teams have won 11 regional and four national championships, including rare back-to-back national wins in 2000 and 2001.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Restarting the club and competition team has renewed CALS students&#8217; sense of purpose and resilience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cI love the camaraderie we\u2019re building,\u201d says co-captain Klaudia Sullivan, a food science major in the <a href=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/food-bioprocessing-and-nutrition-sciences\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Department of Food, Bioprocessing and Nutrition Sciences<\/a>. \u201cIt makes me excited to move forward with the team.\u201d&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to get involved<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Interested students can attend a Food Science Club meeting every Tuesday in Schaub Hall at 6 p.m. (with free dinner at 5:30 p.m.).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Website: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncsufsc.com\/basic-01\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/www.ncsufsc.com\/basic-01<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Instagram: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/ncsu_fsc\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/ncsu_fsc<\/a>&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"#top\">Back to Top \u2191<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"hortpack\">HortPack: Cultivating Leaders in Landscaping<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/20250207_131328-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"Young adults in warehouse wearing neon vests\" class=\"wp-image-996537\" style=\"aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Since 1990, NC&#160;State\u2019s <a href=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/horticultural-science\/students\/hortpack\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">HortPack<\/a> has competed in the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.landscapeprofessionals.org\/NCLC\/National-Collegiate-Landscape-Competition.aspx\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">National Collegiate Landscape Competition<\/a>, a hands-on, industry-driven tournament where students test their skills in <a href=\"https:\/\/www.landscapeprofessionals.org\/NCLC\/NCLC\/competitive-events.aspx\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">30 events<\/a> against 50 schools.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>From plant identification to excavator operation, this week-long experience, also called the \u201c<a href=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/horticultural-science\/news\/hortpack-competes-in-the-landscape-olympics\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Landscape Olympics<\/a>,\u201d blends classroom knowledge with real-world training.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>With support from industry partners, donors and local sponsors, students gain invaluable networking opportunities, mentorship and job prospects. The competition\u2019s career fair is the largest in the green industry, opening doors to national employers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<section class=\"wp-block-ncst-thumbnail-gallery\" id=\"ncst-thumbnail-gallery1\"><div class=\"thumbnail-gallery__viewport\"><ul class=\"thumbnail-gallery__container ncst-gallery\"><li class=\"thumbnail-gallery__item\" data-gallery-item=\"0\"><figure><a href=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Hortpack-2-scaled.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Hortpack-2-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"Group of students standing in front of a geometric patterned wall\" data-id=\"996536\" data-link=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Hortpack-2-scaled.jpg\" class=\"wp-image-996536\" \/><\/a><figcaption>HortPack students won scholarships from the National Association of Landscape Professionals in 2024. Left to right: Andrew Quate, Brady Farlow, Lauren Turner, Daniel Wasserman, Ava Anderson and Adam Miller<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"thumbnail-gallery__item\" data-gallery-item=\"1\"><figure><a href=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Hortpack-1.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Hortpack-1-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"Students wearing hard hats standing in parking lot\" data-id=\"996535\" data-link=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Hortpack-1.jpg\" class=\"wp-image-996535\" \/><\/a><figcaption>Students Taylor Snyder and Nick Taylor after participating in the truck and trailer competition<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"thumbnail-gallery__item\" data-gallery-item=\"2\"><figure><a href=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Hortpack-3.webp\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Hortpack-3-150x150.webp\" alt=\"Two young women posing in the rain on a field.\" data-id=\"996534\" data-link=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Hortpack-3.webp\" class=\"wp-image-996534\" \/><\/a><figcaption>Students Nicole Vitale and Joy Othoo after competing in the irrigation assembly event together<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"thumbnail-gallery__item\" data-gallery-item=\"3\"><figure><a href=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Hortpack-4.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Hortpack-4-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"Young adults posing on stage\" data-id=\"996533\" data-link=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Hortpack-4.jpg\" class=\"wp-image-996533\" \/><\/a><figcaption>HortPack team and advisors on stage after being awarded the Real Stihl Spirit Award for the team that exhibits the best attitude, camaraderie, and dedication during the competition<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/li><\/ul><\/div><\/section>\n\n\n\n<p>NC&#160;State\u2019s team has placed in the top 10, including a third-place finish in 2022 and back-to-back Real STIHL Spirit Awards.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cHortPack is a beautiful blend of hands-on learning and industry experience,\u201d says Isaac Lewis, administrative support specialist for undergraduate programs in the <a href=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/horticultural-science\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Department of Horticultural Science<\/a>. \u201cIt combines classroom teaching with boots-on-the-ground learning, helping students grow deeper roots in their future careers.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to get involved<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Students interested in joining should attend an early HortPack meeting in August when team building and preparation for the March event begin. Horticultural science students will receive an email with details, and HortPack members regularly announce opportunities in classes throughout CALS departments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Instagram: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/ncsuhortpack\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/ncsuhortpack<\/a>&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"#top\">Back to Top \u2191<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"packpullers\">Pack Pullers: Champions of Innovation<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_8988-1024x576.jpg\" alt=\"Three young men handling machinery\" class=\"wp-image-996565\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Founded in 1998, NC&#160;State\u2019s Pack Pullers is a competitive, hands-on team from the <a href=\"https:\/\/bae.ncsu.edu\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Department of Biological and Agricultural Engineering<\/a>. Electrical engineering and agricultural business students also participate. They compete annually in the <a href=\"https:\/\/asabe.org\/IQS\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">International 1\/4 Scale Tractor Student Design Competition<\/a>, gaining engineering experience and industry connections.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The team consistently competes against top Midwestern schools and made history in 2024 as <a href=\"https:\/\/engr.ncsu.edu\/news\/2024\/06\/11\/international-champions-the-pack-pullers-steer-their-way-to-victory\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">international champions<\/a>. Out of 60 competing universities, they are now the ninth team to achieve victory, solidifying their place among the competition&#8217;s elite.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Over the past three years, they have won first and second in durability, third in pulls and first in overall performance events.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<section class=\"wp-block-ncst-thumbnail-gallery\" id=\"ncst-thumbnail-gallery15\"><div class=\"thumbnail-gallery__controls-container\"><button class=\"scroll prev\" disabled><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 512 512\"><path d=\"M448,216.66H205.64l103.87-97.57L256,64,64,256,256,448l53.51-53.51L205.64,295.34H448Z\"><\/path><\/svg><span class=\"sr-only\">Previous<\/span><\/button><span class=\"thumbnail-gallery__page-indicator-numerals\"><span class=\"thumbnail-gallery__current-page\">1<\/span>\/2<\/span><button class=\"scroll next\"><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 512 512\"><path d=\"M64,295.34H306.36L202.49,392.92,256,448,448,256,256,64l-53.51,53.51,103.87,99.15H64Z\"><\/path><\/svg><span class=\"sr-only\">Next<\/span><\/button><\/div><div class=\"thumbnail-gallery__viewport\"><ul class=\"thumbnail-gallery__container ncst-gallery\"><li class=\"thumbnail-gallery__item\" data-gallery-item=\"0\"><figure><a href=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_5909.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_5909-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"Group of people holding trophies\" data-id=\"996567\" data-link=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_5909.jpg\" class=\"wp-image-996567\" \/><\/a><figcaption>NC&#160;State Chancellor Randy Woodson and CALS Dean Garey Fox pose with 2024 Pack Pullers champions<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"thumbnail-gallery__item\" data-gallery-item=\"1\"><figure><a href=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_0019-scaled.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_0019-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"Tractor flanked with trophies\" data-id=\"996564\" data-link=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_0019-scaled.jpg\" class=\"wp-image-996564\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"thumbnail-gallery__item\" data-gallery-item=\"2\"><figure><a href=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_2156-scaled.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_2156-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"tractors in a warehouse\" data-id=\"996563\" data-link=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_2156-scaled.jpg\" class=\"wp-image-996563\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"thumbnail-gallery__item\" data-gallery-item=\"3\"><figure><a href=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_8312-scaled.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_8312-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"Driving a tractor on a dirt track\" data-id=\"996562\" data-link=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_8312-scaled.jpg\" class=\"wp-image-996562\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"thumbnail-gallery__item\" data-gallery-item=\"4\"><figure><a href=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_9276-scaled.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_9276-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"Group of young people standing on grass behind a tractor\" data-id=\"996561\" data-link=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_9276-scaled.jpg\" class=\"wp-image-996561\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"thumbnail-gallery__item\" data-gallery-item=\"5\"><figure><a href=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_9198-scaled.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_9198-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"Group of young adults standing around a tractor\" data-id=\"996560\" data-link=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_9198-scaled.jpg\" class=\"wp-image-996560\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"thumbnail-gallery__item\" data-gallery-item=\"6\"><figure><a href=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_9380-scaled.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_9380-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"Driving a tractor through a course\" data-id=\"996559\" data-link=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_9380-scaled.jpg\" class=\"wp-image-996559\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"thumbnail-gallery__item\" data-gallery-item=\"7\"><figure><a href=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/PP3.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/PP3-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"Driving a tractor on a field\" data-id=\"996558\" data-link=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/PP3.jpg\" class=\"wp-image-996558\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"thumbnail-gallery__item\" data-gallery-item=\"8\"><figure><a href=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_9430-scaled.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_9430-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"Driving a tractor in an indoor course over obstacles\" data-id=\"996556\" data-link=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_9430-scaled.jpg\" class=\"wp-image-996556\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"thumbnail-gallery__item\" data-gallery-item=\"9\"><figure><a href=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/PP2.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/PP2-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"Group of people sitting at a table throwing wolf ears\" data-id=\"996557\" data-link=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/PP2.jpg\" class=\"wp-image-996557\" \/><\/a><figcaption>CALS Dean Garey Fox with the Pack Pullers team<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/li><\/ul><\/div><ul class=\"thumbnail-gallery__page-indicator-container\"><li class=\"thumbnail-gallery__page-indicator\"><button class=\"thumbnail-gallery__page-indicator-button\" data-page=\"1\" aria-label=\"Scroll to page 1\"><span class=\"sr-only\">Page 1<\/span><\/button><\/li><li class=\"thumbnail-gallery__page-indicator\"><button class=\"thumbnail-gallery__page-indicator-button\" data-page=\"2\" aria-label=\"Scroll to page 2\"><span class=\"sr-only\">Page 2<\/span><\/button><\/li><\/ul><\/section>\n\n\n\n<p>Pack Pullers design and build their tractors in-house with cutting-edge support from NC&#160;State\u2019s <a href=\"https:\/\/bae.ncsu.edu\/about\/weaver-facility\/support-services\/research-shop-2\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">BAE Research Shop<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This year, the team faces a new challenge \u2014 build and present a tractor using a Kawasaki engine and Titan tires. Industry experts will judge these entries on innovation, safety and ease of production.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to get involved<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>As they refine their designs, Pack Pullers welcomes new members to help design and build exciting projects. Contact <a href=\"https:\/\/bae.ncsu.edu\/people\/tdsteph2\/\">Tommy Stephenson<\/a> or <a href=\"https:\/\/bae.ncsu.edu\/people\/ghelling\/\">Grant Ellington<\/a> for more information.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Website: <a href=\"https:\/\/bae.ncsu.edu\/pack-pullers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/bae.ncsu.edu\/pack-pullers<\/a>&nbsp;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Instagram: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/ncsupackpullers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/ncsupackpullers<\/a>&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"#top\">Back to Top \u2191<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"robo\">RoboPack: Innovating the Future of Robotics<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_0257-1024x576.jpg\" alt=\"Group of students in red shirts\" class=\"wp-image-996571\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">RoboPack is guided by Assistant Professor Lirong Xiang (right), the first person at NC&#160;State to lead a winning agriculture robotics team and develop an agricultural robotics summer camp for high school students.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>RoboPack is an agricultural robotics team supported by the <a href=\"https:\/\/bae.ncsu.edu\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Department of Biological and Agricultural Engineering<\/a>. The team designs, builds and deploys autonomous robots for tasks like field mapping, pruning and egg grading.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Since its founding in 2023, RoboPack has quickly gained recognition. The team competes annually at the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.asabe.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">American Society of Biological and Agricultural Engineers<\/a> (ASABE) international competition.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The team won first place with a cotton field mapping robot in its first competition. In 2024, the advanced division team secured another first-place finish for a robot that analyzes strawberry field health.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<section class=\"wp-block-ncst-thumbnail-gallery\" id=\"ncst-thumbnail-gallery2\"><div class=\"thumbnail-gallery__viewport\"><ul class=\"thumbnail-gallery__container ncst-gallery\"><li class=\"thumbnail-gallery__item\" data-gallery-item=\"0\"><figure><a href=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_0528.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_0528-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"Group of students in red shirts on stage\" data-id=\"996573\" data-link=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_0528.jpg\" class=\"wp-image-996573\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"thumbnail-gallery__item\" data-gallery-item=\"1\"><figure><a href=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_5245-scaled.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_5245-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"robot\" data-id=\"996570\" data-link=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_5245-scaled.jpg\" class=\"wp-image-996570\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"thumbnail-gallery__item\" data-gallery-item=\"2\"><figure><a href=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_5251-scaled.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_5251-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"Group of students in red shirts with robot\" data-id=\"996569\" data-link=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_5251-scaled.jpg\" class=\"wp-image-996569\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"thumbnail-gallery__item\" data-gallery-item=\"3\"><figure><a href=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_5256-scaled.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_5256-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"Student in red shirts bending over robot\" data-id=\"996568\" data-link=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_5256-scaled.jpg\" class=\"wp-image-996568\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"thumbnail-gallery__item\" data-gallery-item=\"4\"><figure><a href=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_0531.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_0531-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"Students on stage throwing wolf ears\" data-id=\"996572\" data-link=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_0531.jpg\" class=\"wp-image-996572\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/li><\/ul><\/div><\/section>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cMore than awards, RoboPack values growth, outreach and interdisciplinary collaboration,\u201d says team president Evelynn Wilcox, adding that the group focuses on making agricultural robotics more accessible to a broader range of participants.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>RoboPack designs robots for real agricultural challenges, such as unpredictable terrain, irregular objects and changing light conditions. Students get hands-on experience in robotics and coding while building teamwork skills.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The team continues to expand its impact and prepare students to compete at the 2025 ASABE international competition in Toronto, Canada.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cWe aim to build a strong legacy \u2014 much like Pack Pullers \u2014 by mentoring future members and increasing interest in precision agriculture,\u201d Wilcox says.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to get involved<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Students can get involved by contacting <a href=\"mailto:baerobopack@ncsu.edu\">baerobopack@ncsu.edu<\/a> or Evelynn Wilcox at <a href=\"mailto:emwilco2@ncsu.edu\">emwilco2@ncsu.edu<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Website: <a href=\"https:\/\/ncsu.campuslabs.com\/engage\/organization\/robopack\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/ncsu.campuslabs.com\/engage\/organization\/robopack<\/a>&nbsp;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"#top\">Back to Top \u2191<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"soil\">Soil Judging Team: Digging Deep into Success<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Featured-1024x576.jpg\" alt=\"Group of students in field holding a sign\" class=\"wp-image-996541\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">NC&#160;State University Soil Judging Team &#8211; 2024<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>The NC&#160;State <a href=\"https:\/\/soiljudging.wordpress.ncsu.edu\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Soil Judging Team<\/a> was established in 1959 and attended its first competition in 1961. Soil Judging is a national intercollegiate contest in which teams analyze soil profiles, assessing their color, texture and structure to determine land use suitability. Teams compete at the regional level in the fall, with top finishers advancing to nationals in the spring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The team boasts five regional championships and multiple top-three national finishes. Since 2018, every NC&#160;State team has qualified for nationals, a program record. In 2022, Curtis Murphy placed sixth globally, aiding Team USA\u2019s win. NC&#160;State also secured second at nationals, with Sarah Bailey and Noah Puckett winning regionals in 2023 and 2024.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<section class=\"wp-block-ncst-thumbnail-gallery\" id=\"ncst-thumbnail-gallery3\"><div class=\"thumbnail-gallery__viewport\"><ul class=\"thumbnail-gallery__container ncst-gallery\"><li class=\"thumbnail-gallery__item\" data-gallery-item=\"0\"><figure><a href=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/14605218624_a2f4cea1cf_o.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/14605218624_a2f4cea1cf_o-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"Vintage photo of four men standing on dirt\" data-id=\"996543\" data-link=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/14605218624_a2f4cea1cf_o.jpg\" class=\"wp-image-996543\" \/><\/a><figcaption>NC&#160;State University Soil Judging Team &#8211; 1960 including Alumni Distinguished Professor of Crop Science Bob Patterson (second from right)<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"thumbnail-gallery__item\" data-gallery-item=\"1\"><figure><a href=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/14584222826_f0a0e109ae_o.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/14584222826_f0a0e109ae_o-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"Group of students standing in a pasture\" data-id=\"996542\" data-link=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/14584222826_f0a0e109ae_o.jpg\" class=\"wp-image-996542\" \/><\/a><figcaption>NC&#160;State University Soil Judging Team &#8211; 1977<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"thumbnail-gallery__item\" data-gallery-item=\"2\"><figure><a href=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_0068.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_0068-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"Four students reaching into a muddy pit\" data-id=\"996540\" data-link=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_0068.jpg\" class=\"wp-image-996540\" \/><\/a><figcaption>Four team members in a practice pit at the 2024 regionals in Kentucky<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"thumbnail-gallery__item\" data-gallery-item=\"3\"><figure><a href=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_4522.jpeg\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_4522-150x150.jpeg\" alt=\"Young adults in black shirts in front of blue wall\" data-id=\"996539\" data-link=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_4522.jpeg\" class=\"wp-image-996539\" \/><\/a><figcaption>2023 Regionals team in West Virginia (left to right): Michael Caldwell, Lexi Seal (eighth), Sarah Tolman, Sarah Bailey (first), Tommy Godwin, Jordan Harris, Francesca Gervase,\nAdam Miller, and West Virginia soil judging coach<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"thumbnail-gallery__item\" data-gallery-item=\"4\"><figure><a href=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Ricker_Jacob_Soils.jpg\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Ricker_Jacob_Soils-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"Two men in khaki pants, neon green gloves laying on the ground by a pit and pile of dirt\" data-id=\"996538\" data-link=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Ricker_Jacob_Soils.jpg\" class=\"wp-image-996538\" \/><\/a><figcaption>Associate Professor Matthew Ricker (left) and Research Specialist Jacob Cheers (right) strike a pose in 2022. <\/figcaption><\/figure><\/li><\/ul><\/div><\/section>\n\n\n\n<p>Coached by <a href=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/crop-and-soil-sciences\/people\/mcricker\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Matthew Ricker<\/a>, associate professor in the <a href=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/crop-and-soil-sciences\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Department of Crop and Soil Sciences<\/a>, the team is preparing to host the 2025 regionals and 2026 nationals \u2014 back-to-back events. One ongoing goal: surpass long-time rival Virginia Tech!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cJoining the Soil Judging Team provides a great way to gain field experience first-hand quickly,\u201d Bailey says. \u201cNot only are you learning in class before the competition about different landscapes, geology and pedology, but you also get one full week of experience in the field. This quick, immersive experience is rare.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Dedication and fellowship make this team stand out. Members take competition seriously but keep the atmosphere lighthearted. \u201cThis team increases your social skills and helps create new friendships,\u201d Bailey says.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to get involved<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Interested students can participate by taking Soil Judging for Land Evaluation (SSC 410) during the fall semester. Soil Science (SSC 200) is a prerequisite. Please email Professor Matthew Ricker at <a href=\"mailto:mcricker@ncsu.edu\">mcricker@ncsu.edu<\/a> for more information.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Website: <a href=\"https:\/\/soiljudging.wordpress.ncsu.edu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/soiljudging.wordpress.ncsu.edu\/<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"#top\">Back to Top \u2191<\/a><\/p>\n<p><em>This post was <a href=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/news\/nc-state-cals-competition-teams-level-up-your-college-experience\/\">originally published<\/a> in College of Agriculture and Life Sciences News.<\/em><\/p>","protected":false,"raw":"<!-- wp:ncst\/dynamic-header {\"block\":\"ncst\/default-post-header\"} -->\n<!-- wp:ncst\/default-post-header {\"displayCategoryID\":1174,\"subtitle\":\"Competition teams provide students with transformative experiences that promote academic excellence, belonging and deeper college engagement.\"} \/-->\n<!-- \/wp:ncst\/dynamic-header -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Students at the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences have the opportunity to compete against the best collegiate teams in the nation, solve real-world challenges and build lifelong connections while they learn.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>NC State University\u2019s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS) offers over <a href=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/students\/cals-opportunities\/clubs-and-organizations\/#competition\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">30 student competition teams<\/a>, with topics ranging from insects to soil to robotics.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>CALS\u2019 competition teams foster academic excellence, boost career readiness and enhance well-being and belonging.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p id=\"top\">Explore the following teams that help students grow, succeed and find community.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list -->\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><a href=\"#agribusiness\">Agribusiness Sales Team<\/a><\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><a href=\"#entomology\">Entomology Games<\/a><\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><a href=\"#food-science\">Food Science Club IFTSA College Bowl Team<\/a><\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><a href=\"#hortpack\">HortPack<\/a><\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><a href=\"#packpullers\">Pack Pullers<\/a><\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><a href=\"#robo\">RoboPack<\/a><\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li><a href=\"#soil\">Soil Judging Team<\/a><\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/ul>\n<!-- \/wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 id=\"agribusiness\">Agribusiness Sales Team: Crafting the Perfect Pitch<\/h2>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:image {\"id\":996532,\"sizeSlug\":\"large\",\"linkDestination\":\"none\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img src=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Agribusiness-1024x576.jpg\" alt=\"Group of students in classroom studying at table\" class=\"wp-image-996532\" \/><\/figure>\n<!-- \/wp:image -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>NC State\u2019s Agribusiness Sales Team debuted at the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.nama.org\/student-sales-competition.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">National Agri-Marketing Association<\/a> Sales Competition in 2024. The competition tests individual contestants\u2019 basic sales call skills and performance. Students Josh Miller and Samantha Eubanks finished first and third in the finals.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Supported by the <a href=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/departments\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Department of Agricultural Resource Economics<\/a>, students are selected for the team through Professional Selling in the Modern Ag Industry, a sales workshop taught by <a href=\"https:\/\/calsboards.cals.ncsu.edu\/people\/aaron-messer\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Aaron Messer<\/a>, area business manager at Bayer Crop Science. Under Messer\u2019s leadership, the team is preparing for long-term success and a return to the national stage in April 2025.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>\u201cHis coaching has been instrumental in refining sales presentations and developing essential skills,\u201d says Fleming Fulford, an <a href=\"https:\/\/catalog.ncsu.edu\/undergraduate\/agriculture-life-sciences\/agricultural-resource-economics\/agricultural-business-management-bs\/#text\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">agriculture business management<\/a> student. After seeing the team's success, she was inspired to take the sales workshop.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>\u201cBecause sales is such a valuable business function and skill set, I decided to take the sales workshop in 2025,\u201d Fulford says. \u201cLast year\u2019s team inspired me to take the workshop to make this year\u2019s team.\u201d The team adds value as she prepares for her future career, competes academically and embraces \u201cThink and Do\u201d spirit of the Wolfpack.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3>How to Get Involved<\/h3>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Interested students should sign up for Professional Selling in the Modern Ag Industry for the fall semester. After completing the workshop, students can apply for the sales team.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><a href=\"#top\">Back to Top \u2191<\/a><\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 id=\"entomology\">Entomology Games: Buzzing with Curiosity<\/h2>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:image {\"id\":996574,\"sizeSlug\":\"large\",\"linkDestination\":\"none\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img src=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/NCSU_Entomology_Games_Team_national_competing_ESA2024-1-1024x576.jpg\" alt=\"academic game contestants on a stage\" class=\"wp-image-996574\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">NC State students competing at the Entomological Society of America Annual Meeting games in Phoenix, Arizona, November 2024<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<!-- \/wp:image -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>For four decades, NC State has showcased its buzzworthy expertise in entomology through the annual <a href=\"https:\/\/www.entsoc.org\/events\/annual-meeting\/entomology-games\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Entomology Games<\/a>. Launched in 1982 by the Entomological Society of America\u2019s North Central Branch, the competition now draws college teams nationwide.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Supported by the <a href=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/entomology-and-plant-pathology\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology<\/a>, the NC State team has won at least 15 Southeastern Branch titles (a record for the region) and secured second place at the 2024 national games in Phoenix, Arizona. For over 40 years, the team has claimed three national championships and five runner-up finishes.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:ncst\/thumbnail-gallery {\"ids\":[996555,996553,996552,996551,996550],\"instanceId\":0} -->\n<section class=\"wp-block-ncst-thumbnail-gallery\" id=\"ncst-thumbnail-gallery0\"><div class=\"thumbnail-gallery__viewport\"><ul class=\"thumbnail-gallery__container ncst-gallery\"><li class=\"thumbnail-gallery__item\" data-gallery-item=\"0\"><figure><a href=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/NCSU_Entomology_Games_Team_branch_competing_2024-scaled.jpg\"><img src=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/NCSU_Entomology_Games_Team_branch_competing_2024-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"Students in white t-shirts sitting at a table\" data-id=\"996555\" data-link=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/NCSU_Entomology_Games_Team_branch_competing_2024-scaled.jpg\" class=\"wp-image-996555\" \/><\/a><figcaption>NC State students competing at the Entomological Society of America Southeastern Branch games in 2024. From left to right: Dayvion Adams, Regan Daniels, Ariel Tarrand and Zachary Everson <\/figcaption><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"thumbnail-gallery__item\" data-gallery-item=\"1\"><figure><a href=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/NCSU_Entomology_Games_Team_SEB2003.jpg\"><img src=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/NCSU_Entomology_Games_Team_SEB2003-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"Magazine clipping with people sitting at table behind a trophy\" data-id=\"996553\" data-link=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/NCSU_Entomology_Games_Team_SEB2003.jpg\" class=\"wp-image-996553\" \/><\/a><figcaption>An article highlighting the team's Entomological Society of America Southeastern Branch win in 2003.\n<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"thumbnail-gallery__item\" data-gallery-item=\"2\"><figure><a href=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/NCSU_Entomology_Games_Team_SEB2002-scaled.jpg\"><img src=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/NCSU_Entomology_Games_Team_SEB2002-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"Group of young adults holding certificates in front of bookcase\" data-id=\"996552\" data-link=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/NCSU_Entomology_Games_Team_SEB2002-scaled.jpg\" class=\"wp-image-996552\" \/><\/a><figcaption>2002 NC State team that placed second nationally. From left to right: Wes Watson (coach), Juan Cabrera, Tracy Rennie, Matt Bertone, Chad Gore, Dawn Calibeo and Jim Harper (former department head)<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"thumbnail-gallery__item\" data-gallery-item=\"3\"><figure><a href=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/NCSU_Entomology_Games_Team_SEB2024-scaled.jpg\"><img src=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/NCSU_Entomology_Games_Team_SEB2024-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"Students in white t-shirts on brick pathway\" data-id=\"996551\" data-link=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/NCSU_Entomology_Games_Team_SEB2024-scaled.jpg\" class=\"wp-image-996551\" \/><\/a><figcaption>NC State team at the Entomological Society of America Southeastern Branch games in 2024. From left to right: Ariel Tarrand, Zachary Everson, Matt Bertone (coach), Regan Daniels, Kaylin Lewandowski and Dayvion Adams<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"thumbnail-gallery__item\" data-gallery-item=\"4\"><figure><a href=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/SEB_Traveling_Trophy-scaled.jpg\"><img src=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/SEB_Traveling_Trophy-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"tall trophy\" data-id=\"996550\" data-link=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/SEB_Traveling_Trophy-scaled.jpg\" class=\"wp-image-996550\" \/><\/a><figcaption>A retired trophy housed at NC State<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/li><\/ul><\/div><\/section>\n<!-- \/wp:ncst\/thumbnail-gallery -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Experienced as both a competitor and coach, <a href=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/entomology-and-plant-pathology\/people\/maberto2\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Matt Bertone<\/a>, director of the Plant Disease and Insect Clinic, noted that some teams rely on a standout player.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>\u201cWhat makes our current lineup so great is that the members have their specialties with abundant knowledge, competitive skill and enthusiasm,\u201d he says. \u201cIt's rare to have a team that is so well-rounded and able to tackle the array of questions they receive. They\u2019re truly formidable and a complete joy to coach.\u201d<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>The games help the team members build friendships, connect at national meetings and make learning more engaging. Challenging other top students nationwide fuels their competitive drive and boosts confidence. The games also unite the department, sparking pride and excitement \u2014 especially when they win!<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3>How to get involved<\/h3>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Interested students can visit the departmental <a href=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/entomology-and-plant-pathology\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">web page<\/a> or contact Matt Bertone at <a href=\"mailto:maberto2@ncsu.edu\">maberto2@ncsu.edu<\/a>.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><a href=\"#top\">Back to Top \u2191<\/a><\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 id=\"food-science\">Food Science Club: Rebuilding for a Comeback<\/h2>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:image {\"id\":996531,\"sizeSlug\":\"large\",\"linkDestination\":\"none\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img src=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Food-Science-Club-1024x576.jpg\" alt=\"Group of students standing in front of a white board\" class=\"wp-image-996531\" \/><\/figure>\n<!-- \/wp:image -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Since 1985, the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ift.org\/community\/students\/competitions-and-awards\/college-bowl\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Institute of Food Technologists Student Association (IFTSA) College Bowl Competition<\/a> has tested students' knowledge in food chemistry, microbiology, engineering, food laws and IFT-related trivia.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>After the pandemic disrupted the NC State\u2019s IFTSA College Bowl team\u2019s activities, a group of first-year students from the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncsufsc.com\/basic-01\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Food Science Club<\/a> rallied to revive the team. With their first regional competition at Virginia Tech in March 2025, they\u2019re eager to prove themselves and earn a spot at this summer\u2019s national competition in Chicago, Illinois.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Since 2000, NC State teams have won 11 regional and four national championships, including rare back-to-back national wins in 2000 and 2001.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Restarting the club and competition team has renewed CALS students' sense of purpose and resilience.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>\u201cI love the camaraderie we\u2019re building,\u201d says co-captain Klaudia Sullivan, a food science major in the <a href=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/food-bioprocessing-and-nutrition-sciences\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Department of Food, Bioprocessing and Nutrition Sciences<\/a>. \u201cIt makes me excited to move forward with the team.\u201d&nbsp;<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3>How to get involved<\/h3>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Interested students can attend a Food Science Club meeting every Tuesday in Schaub Hall at 6 p.m. (with free dinner at 5:30 p.m.).<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list -->\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Website: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncsufsc.com\/basic-01\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/www.ncsufsc.com\/basic-01<\/a><\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Instagram: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/ncsu_fsc\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/ncsu_fsc<\/a>&nbsp;<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/ul>\n<!-- \/wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><a href=\"#top\">Back to Top \u2191<\/a><\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 id=\"hortpack\">HortPack: Cultivating Leaders in Landscaping<\/h2>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:image {\"id\":996537,\"aspectRatio\":\"16\/9\",\"scale\":\"cover\",\"sizeSlug\":\"large\",\"linkDestination\":\"none\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img src=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/20250207_131328-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"Young adults in warehouse wearing neon vests\" class=\"wp-image-996537\" style=\"aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\" \/><\/figure>\n<!-- \/wp:image -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Since 1990, NC State\u2019s <a href=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/horticultural-science\/students\/hortpack\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">HortPack<\/a> has competed in the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.landscapeprofessionals.org\/NCLC\/National-Collegiate-Landscape-Competition.aspx\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">National Collegiate Landscape Competition<\/a>, a hands-on, industry-driven tournament where students test their skills in <a href=\"https:\/\/www.landscapeprofessionals.org\/NCLC\/NCLC\/competitive-events.aspx\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">30 events<\/a> against 50 schools.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>From plant identification to excavator operation, this week-long experience, also called the \u201c<a href=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/horticultural-science\/news\/hortpack-competes-in-the-landscape-olympics\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Landscape Olympics<\/a>,\u201d blends classroom knowledge with real-world training.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>With support from industry partners, donors and local sponsors, students gain invaluable networking opportunities, mentorship and job prospects. The competition\u2019s career fair is the largest in the green industry, opening doors to national employers.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:ncst\/thumbnail-gallery {\"ids\":[996536,996535,996534,996533],\"instanceId\":1} -->\n<section class=\"wp-block-ncst-thumbnail-gallery\" id=\"ncst-thumbnail-gallery1\"><div class=\"thumbnail-gallery__viewport\"><ul class=\"thumbnail-gallery__container ncst-gallery\"><li class=\"thumbnail-gallery__item\" data-gallery-item=\"0\"><figure><a href=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Hortpack-2-scaled.jpg\"><img src=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Hortpack-2-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"Group of students standing in front of a geometric patterned wall\" data-id=\"996536\" data-link=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Hortpack-2-scaled.jpg\" class=\"wp-image-996536\" \/><\/a><figcaption>HortPack students won scholarships from the National Association of Landscape Professionals in 2024. Left to right: Andrew Quate, Brady Farlow, Lauren Turner, Daniel Wasserman, Ava Anderson and Adam Miller<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"thumbnail-gallery__item\" data-gallery-item=\"1\"><figure><a href=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Hortpack-1.jpg\"><img src=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Hortpack-1-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"Students wearing hard hats standing in parking lot\" data-id=\"996535\" data-link=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Hortpack-1.jpg\" class=\"wp-image-996535\" \/><\/a><figcaption>Students Taylor Snyder and Nick Taylor after participating in the truck and trailer competition<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"thumbnail-gallery__item\" data-gallery-item=\"2\"><figure><a href=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Hortpack-3.webp\"><img src=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Hortpack-3-150x150.webp\" alt=\"Two young women posing in the rain on a field.\" data-id=\"996534\" data-link=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Hortpack-3.webp\" class=\"wp-image-996534\" \/><\/a><figcaption>Students Nicole Vitale and Joy Othoo after competing in the irrigation assembly event together<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"thumbnail-gallery__item\" data-gallery-item=\"3\"><figure><a href=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Hortpack-4.jpg\"><img src=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Hortpack-4-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"Young adults posing on stage\" data-id=\"996533\" data-link=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Hortpack-4.jpg\" class=\"wp-image-996533\" \/><\/a><figcaption>HortPack team and advisors on stage after being awarded the Real Stihl Spirit Award for the team that exhibits the best attitude, camaraderie, and dedication during the competition<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/li><\/ul><\/div><\/section>\n<!-- \/wp:ncst\/thumbnail-gallery -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>NC State\u2019s team has placed in the top 10, including a third-place finish in 2022 and back-to-back Real STIHL Spirit Awards.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>\u201cHortPack is a beautiful blend of hands-on learning and industry experience,\u201d says Isaac Lewis, administrative support specialist for undergraduate programs in the <a href=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/horticultural-science\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Department of Horticultural Science<\/a>. \u201cIt combines classroom teaching with boots-on-the-ground learning, helping students grow deeper roots in their future careers.\u201d<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3>How to get involved<\/h3>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Students interested in joining should attend an early HortPack meeting in August when team building and preparation for the March event begin. Horticultural science students will receive an email with details, and HortPack members regularly announce opportunities in classes throughout CALS departments.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list -->\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Instagram: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/ncsuhortpack\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/ncsuhortpack<\/a>&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/ul>\n<!-- \/wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><a href=\"#top\">Back to Top \u2191<\/a><\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 id=\"packpullers\">Pack Pullers: Champions of Innovation<\/h2>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:image {\"id\":996565,\"sizeSlug\":\"large\",\"linkDestination\":\"none\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img src=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_8988-1024x576.jpg\" alt=\"Three young men handling machinery\" class=\"wp-image-996565\" \/><\/figure>\n<!-- \/wp:image -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Founded in 1998, NC State\u2019s Pack Pullers is a competitive, hands-on team from the <a href=\"https:\/\/bae.ncsu.edu\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Department of Biological and Agricultural Engineering<\/a>. Electrical engineering and agricultural business students also participate. They compete annually in the <a href=\"https:\/\/asabe.org\/IQS\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">International 1\/4 Scale Tractor Student Design Competition<\/a>, gaining engineering experience and industry connections.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>The team consistently competes against top Midwestern schools and made history in 2024 as <a href=\"https:\/\/engr.ncsu.edu\/news\/2024\/06\/11\/international-champions-the-pack-pullers-steer-their-way-to-victory\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">international champions<\/a>. Out of 60 competing universities, they are now the ninth team to achieve victory, solidifying their place among the competition's elite.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Over the past three years, they have won first and second in durability, third in pulls and first in overall performance events.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:ncst\/thumbnail-gallery {\"ids\":[996567,996564,996563,996562,996561,996560,996559,996558,996556,996557],\"instanceId\":15} -->\n<section class=\"wp-block-ncst-thumbnail-gallery\" id=\"ncst-thumbnail-gallery15\"><div class=\"thumbnail-gallery__controls-container\"><button class=\"scroll prev\" disabled><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 512 512\"><path d=\"M448,216.66H205.64l103.87-97.57L256,64,64,256,256,448l53.51-53.51L205.64,295.34H448Z\"><\/path><\/svg><span class=\"sr-only\">Previous<\/span><\/button><span class=\"thumbnail-gallery__page-indicator-numerals\"><span class=\"thumbnail-gallery__current-page\">1<\/span>\/2<\/span><button class=\"scroll next\"><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 512 512\"><path d=\"M64,295.34H306.36L202.49,392.92,256,448,448,256,256,64l-53.51,53.51,103.87,99.15H64Z\"><\/path><\/svg><span class=\"sr-only\">Next<\/span><\/button><\/div><div class=\"thumbnail-gallery__viewport\"><ul class=\"thumbnail-gallery__container ncst-gallery\"><li class=\"thumbnail-gallery__item\" data-gallery-item=\"0\"><figure><a href=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_5909.jpg\"><img src=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_5909-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"Group of people holding trophies\" data-id=\"996567\" data-link=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_5909.jpg\" class=\"wp-image-996567\" \/><\/a><figcaption>NC State Chancellor Randy Woodson and CALS Dean Garey Fox pose with 2024 Pack Pullers champions<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"thumbnail-gallery__item\" data-gallery-item=\"1\"><figure><a href=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_0019-scaled.jpg\"><img src=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_0019-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"Tractor flanked with trophies\" data-id=\"996564\" data-link=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_0019-scaled.jpg\" class=\"wp-image-996564\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"thumbnail-gallery__item\" data-gallery-item=\"2\"><figure><a href=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_2156-scaled.jpg\"><img src=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_2156-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"tractors in a warehouse\" data-id=\"996563\" data-link=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_2156-scaled.jpg\" class=\"wp-image-996563\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"thumbnail-gallery__item\" data-gallery-item=\"3\"><figure><a href=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_8312-scaled.jpg\"><img src=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_8312-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"Driving a tractor on a dirt track\" data-id=\"996562\" data-link=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_8312-scaled.jpg\" class=\"wp-image-996562\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"thumbnail-gallery__item\" data-gallery-item=\"4\"><figure><a href=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_9276-scaled.jpg\"><img src=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_9276-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"Group of young people standing on grass behind a tractor\" data-id=\"996561\" data-link=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_9276-scaled.jpg\" class=\"wp-image-996561\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"thumbnail-gallery__item\" data-gallery-item=\"5\"><figure><a href=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_9198-scaled.jpg\"><img src=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_9198-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"Group of young adults standing around a tractor\" data-id=\"996560\" data-link=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_9198-scaled.jpg\" class=\"wp-image-996560\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"thumbnail-gallery__item\" data-gallery-item=\"6\"><figure><a href=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_9380-scaled.jpg\"><img src=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_9380-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"Driving a tractor through a course\" data-id=\"996559\" data-link=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_9380-scaled.jpg\" class=\"wp-image-996559\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"thumbnail-gallery__item\" data-gallery-item=\"7\"><figure><a href=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/PP3.jpg\"><img src=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/PP3-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"Driving a tractor on a field\" data-id=\"996558\" data-link=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/PP3.jpg\" class=\"wp-image-996558\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"thumbnail-gallery__item\" data-gallery-item=\"8\"><figure><a href=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_9430-scaled.jpg\"><img src=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_9430-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"Driving a tractor in an indoor course over obstacles\" data-id=\"996556\" data-link=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_9430-scaled.jpg\" class=\"wp-image-996556\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"thumbnail-gallery__item\" data-gallery-item=\"9\"><figure><a href=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/PP2.jpg\"><img src=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/PP2-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"Group of people sitting at a table throwing wolf ears\" data-id=\"996557\" data-link=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/PP2.jpg\" class=\"wp-image-996557\" \/><\/a><figcaption>CALS Dean Garey Fox with the Pack Pullers team<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/li><\/ul><\/div><ul class=\"thumbnail-gallery__page-indicator-container\"><li class=\"thumbnail-gallery__page-indicator\"><button class=\"thumbnail-gallery__page-indicator-button\" data-page=\"1\" aria-label=\"Scroll to page 1\"><span class=\"sr-only\">Page 1<\/span><\/button><\/li><li class=\"thumbnail-gallery__page-indicator\"><button class=\"thumbnail-gallery__page-indicator-button\" data-page=\"2\" aria-label=\"Scroll to page 2\"><span class=\"sr-only\">Page 2<\/span><\/button><\/li><\/ul><\/section>\n<!-- \/wp:ncst\/thumbnail-gallery -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Pack Pullers design and build their tractors in-house with cutting-edge support from NC State\u2019s <a href=\"https:\/\/bae.ncsu.edu\/about\/weaver-facility\/support-services\/research-shop-2\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">BAE Research Shop<\/a>.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>This year, the team faces a new challenge \u2014 build and present a tractor using a Kawasaki engine and Titan tires. Industry experts will judge these entries on innovation, safety and ease of production.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3>How to get involved<\/h3>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>As they refine their designs, Pack Pullers welcomes new members to help design and build exciting projects. Contact <a href=\"https:\/\/bae.ncsu.edu\/people\/tdsteph2\/\">Tommy Stephenson<\/a> or <a href=\"https:\/\/bae.ncsu.edu\/people\/ghelling\/\">Grant Ellington<\/a> for more information.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list -->\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Website: <a href=\"https:\/\/bae.ncsu.edu\/pack-pullers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/bae.ncsu.edu\/pack-pullers<\/a>&nbsp;<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item -->\n\n<!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Instagram: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/ncsupackpullers\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/ncsupackpullers<\/a>&nbsp;<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/ul>\n<!-- \/wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><a href=\"#top\">Back to Top \u2191<\/a><\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 id=\"robo\">RoboPack: Innovating the Future of Robotics<\/h2>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:image {\"id\":996571,\"sizeSlug\":\"large\",\"linkDestination\":\"none\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img src=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_0257-1024x576.jpg\" alt=\"Group of students in red shirts\" class=\"wp-image-996571\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">RoboPack is guided by Assistant Professor Lirong Xiang (right), the first person at NC State to lead a winning agriculture robotics team and develop an agricultural robotics summer camp for high school students.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<!-- \/wp:image -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>RoboPack is an agricultural robotics team supported by the <a href=\"https:\/\/bae.ncsu.edu\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Department of Biological and Agricultural Engineering<\/a>. The team designs, builds and deploys autonomous robots for tasks like field mapping, pruning and egg grading.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Since its founding in 2023, RoboPack has quickly gained recognition. The team competes annually at the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.asabe.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">American Society of Biological and Agricultural Engineers<\/a> (ASABE) international competition.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>The team won first place with a cotton field mapping robot in its first competition. In 2024, the advanced division team secured another first-place finish for a robot that analyzes strawberry field health.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:ncst\/thumbnail-gallery {\"ids\":[996573,996570,996569,996568,996572],\"instanceId\":2} -->\n<section class=\"wp-block-ncst-thumbnail-gallery\" id=\"ncst-thumbnail-gallery2\"><div class=\"thumbnail-gallery__viewport\"><ul class=\"thumbnail-gallery__container ncst-gallery\"><li class=\"thumbnail-gallery__item\" data-gallery-item=\"0\"><figure><a href=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_0528.jpg\"><img src=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_0528-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"Group of students in red shirts on stage\" data-id=\"996573\" data-link=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_0528.jpg\" class=\"wp-image-996573\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"thumbnail-gallery__item\" data-gallery-item=\"1\"><figure><a href=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_5245-scaled.jpg\"><img src=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_5245-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"robot\" data-id=\"996570\" data-link=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_5245-scaled.jpg\" class=\"wp-image-996570\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"thumbnail-gallery__item\" data-gallery-item=\"2\"><figure><a href=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_5251-scaled.jpg\"><img src=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_5251-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"Group of students in red shirts with robot\" data-id=\"996569\" data-link=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_5251-scaled.jpg\" class=\"wp-image-996569\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"thumbnail-gallery__item\" data-gallery-item=\"3\"><figure><a href=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_5256-scaled.jpg\"><img src=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_5256-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"Student in red shirts bending over robot\" data-id=\"996568\" data-link=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_5256-scaled.jpg\" class=\"wp-image-996568\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"thumbnail-gallery__item\" data-gallery-item=\"4\"><figure><a href=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_0531.jpg\"><img src=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_0531-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"Students on stage throwing wolf ears\" data-id=\"996572\" data-link=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_0531.jpg\" class=\"wp-image-996572\" \/><\/a><\/figure><\/li><\/ul><\/div><\/section>\n<!-- \/wp:ncst\/thumbnail-gallery -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>\u201cMore than awards, RoboPack values growth, outreach and interdisciplinary collaboration,\u201d says team president Evelynn Wilcox, adding that the group focuses on making agricultural robotics more accessible to a broader range of participants.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>RoboPack designs robots for real agricultural challenges, such as unpredictable terrain, irregular objects and changing light conditions. Students get hands-on experience in robotics and coding while building teamwork skills.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>The team continues to expand its impact and prepare students to compete at the 2025 ASABE international competition in Toronto, Canada.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>\u201cWe aim to build a strong legacy \u2014 much like Pack Pullers \u2014 by mentoring future members and increasing interest in precision agriculture,\u201d Wilcox says.&nbsp;<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3>How to get involved<\/h3>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Students can get involved by contacting <a href=\"mailto:baerobopack@ncsu.edu\">baerobopack@ncsu.edu<\/a> or Evelynn Wilcox at <a href=\"mailto:emwilco2@ncsu.edu\">emwilco2@ncsu.edu<\/a>.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list -->\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Website: <a href=\"https:\/\/ncsu.campuslabs.com\/engage\/organization\/robopack\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/ncsu.campuslabs.com\/engage\/organization\/robopack<\/a>&nbsp;<\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/ul>\n<!-- \/wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><a href=\"#top\">Back to Top \u2191<\/a><\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading -->\n<h2 id=\"soil\">Soil Judging Team: Digging Deep into Success<\/h2>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:image {\"id\":996541,\"sizeSlug\":\"large\",\"linkDestination\":\"none\"} -->\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img src=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Featured-1024x576.jpg\" alt=\"Group of students in field holding a sign\" class=\"wp-image-996541\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">NC State University Soil Judging Team - 2024<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<!-- \/wp:image -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>The NC State <a href=\"https:\/\/soiljudging.wordpress.ncsu.edu\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Soil Judging Team<\/a> was established in 1959 and attended its first competition in 1961. Soil Judging is a national intercollegiate contest in which teams analyze soil profiles, assessing their color, texture and structure to determine land use suitability. Teams compete at the regional level in the fall, with top finishers advancing to nationals in the spring.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>The team boasts five regional championships and multiple top-three national finishes. Since 2018, every NC State team has qualified for nationals, a program record. In 2022, Curtis Murphy placed sixth globally, aiding Team USA\u2019s win. NC State also secured second at nationals, with Sarah Bailey and Noah Puckett winning regionals in 2023 and 2024.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:ncst\/thumbnail-gallery {\"ids\":[996543,996542,996540,996539,996538],\"instanceId\":3} -->\n<section class=\"wp-block-ncst-thumbnail-gallery\" id=\"ncst-thumbnail-gallery3\"><div class=\"thumbnail-gallery__viewport\"><ul class=\"thumbnail-gallery__container ncst-gallery\"><li class=\"thumbnail-gallery__item\" data-gallery-item=\"0\"><figure><a href=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/14605218624_a2f4cea1cf_o.jpg\"><img src=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/14605218624_a2f4cea1cf_o-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"Vintage photo of four men standing on dirt\" data-id=\"996543\" data-link=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/14605218624_a2f4cea1cf_o.jpg\" class=\"wp-image-996543\" \/><\/a><figcaption>NC State University Soil Judging Team - 1960 including Alumni Distinguished Professor of Crop Science Bob Patterson (second from right)<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"thumbnail-gallery__item\" data-gallery-item=\"1\"><figure><a href=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/14584222826_f0a0e109ae_o.jpg\"><img src=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/14584222826_f0a0e109ae_o-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"Group of students standing in a pasture\" data-id=\"996542\" data-link=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/14584222826_f0a0e109ae_o.jpg\" class=\"wp-image-996542\" \/><\/a><figcaption>NC State University Soil Judging Team - 1977<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"thumbnail-gallery__item\" data-gallery-item=\"2\"><figure><a href=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_0068.jpg\"><img src=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_0068-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"Four students reaching into a muddy pit\" data-id=\"996540\" data-link=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_0068.jpg\" class=\"wp-image-996540\" \/><\/a><figcaption>Four team members in a practice pit at the 2024 regionals in Kentucky<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"thumbnail-gallery__item\" data-gallery-item=\"3\"><figure><a href=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_4522.jpeg\"><img src=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_4522-150x150.jpeg\" alt=\"Young adults in black shirts in front of blue wall\" data-id=\"996539\" data-link=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/IMG_4522.jpeg\" class=\"wp-image-996539\" \/><\/a><figcaption>2023 Regionals team in West Virginia (left to right): Michael Caldwell, Lexi Seal (eighth), Sarah Tolman, Sarah Bailey (first), Tommy Godwin, Jordan Harris, Francesca Gervase,\nAdam Miller, and West Virginia soil judging coach<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/li><li class=\"thumbnail-gallery__item\" data-gallery-item=\"4\"><figure><a href=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Ricker_Jacob_Soils.jpg\"><img src=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Ricker_Jacob_Soils-150x150.jpg\" alt=\"Two men in khaki pants, neon green gloves laying on the ground by a pit and pile of dirt\" data-id=\"996538\" data-link=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/Ricker_Jacob_Soils.jpg\" class=\"wp-image-996538\" \/><\/a><figcaption>Associate Professor Matthew Ricker (left) and Research Specialist Jacob Cheers (right) strike a pose in 2022. <\/figcaption><\/figure><\/li><\/ul><\/div><\/section>\n<!-- \/wp:ncst\/thumbnail-gallery -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Coached by <a href=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/crop-and-soil-sciences\/people\/mcricker\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Matthew Ricker<\/a>, associate professor in the <a href=\"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/crop-and-soil-sciences\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Department of Crop and Soil Sciences<\/a>, the team is preparing to host the 2025 regionals and 2026 nationals \u2014 back-to-back events. One ongoing goal: surpass long-time rival Virginia Tech!<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>\u201cJoining the Soil Judging Team provides a great way to gain field experience first-hand quickly,\u201d Bailey says. \u201cNot only are you learning in class before the competition about different landscapes, geology and pedology, but you also get one full week of experience in the field. This quick, immersive experience is rare.\u201d<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Dedication and fellowship make this team stand out. Members take competition seriously but keep the atmosphere lighthearted. \u201cThis team increases your social skills and helps create new friendships,\u201d Bailey says.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:heading {\"level\":3} -->\n<h3>How to get involved<\/h3>\n<!-- \/wp:heading -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p>Interested students can participate by taking Soil Judging for Land Evaluation (SSC 410) during the fall semester. Soil Science (SSC 200) is a prerequisite. Please email Professor Matthew Ricker at <a href=\"mailto:mcricker@ncsu.edu\">mcricker@ncsu.edu<\/a> for more information.<\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->\n\n<!-- wp:list -->\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><!-- wp:list-item -->\n<li>Website: <a href=\"https:\/\/soiljudging.wordpress.ncsu.edu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">https:\/\/soiljudging.wordpress.ncsu.edu\/<\/a><\/li>\n<!-- \/wp:list-item --><\/ul>\n<!-- \/wp:list -->\n\n<!-- wp:paragraph -->\n<p><a href=\"#top\">Back to Top \u2191<\/a><\/p>\n<!-- \/wp:paragraph -->"},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Check out some of CALS competition teams, which provide students with real-world experiences that promote deeper college engagement and community.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3545,"featured_media":96792,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"source":"ncstate_wire","ncst_custom_author":"","ncst_show_custom_author":false,"ncst_dynamicHeaderBlockName":"ncst\/default-post-header","ncst_dynamicHeaderData":"{\"showAuthor\":true,\"showDate\":true,\"showFeaturedVideo\":false}","ncst_content_audit_freq":"","ncst_content_audit_date":"","footnotes":"","_links_to":"","_links_to_target":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[238],"class_list":["post-96791","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-nc-state","tag-_from-newswire-collection-21"],"displayCategory":null,"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/horticultural-science\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/96791","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/horticultural-science\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/horticultural-science\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/horticultural-science\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/3545"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/horticultural-science\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=96791"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/horticultural-science\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/96791\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":96989,"href":"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/horticultural-science\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/96791\/revisions\/96989"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/horticultural-science\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/96792"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/horticultural-science\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=96791"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/horticultural-science\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=96791"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/cals.ncsu.edu\/horticultural-science\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=96791"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}