Rob West - St. Johns, Clinton County

Rob West, 30, is the assistant manager at the Michigan State University (MSU) Dairy Cattle Teaching and Research Farm, a learning facility focused on research and education in the areas of nutrition, reproduction, physiology, animal health and dairy cow management.

West is trained to do every job on the farm. Among his duties, he's responsible for ordering feed and supplies, maintaining equipment, developing and working within a yearly budget, preparing the facility for research trials, and managing employees.

West has taken the initiative to learn about all aspects of the farm and has become the go-to person for repairs, decisions and advice. His knowledge of the farm and equipment has led to a significant reduction in repair costs and makes him a valuable resource to faculty, students and researchers.

In his spare time, West is active with the Clinton County Farm Bureau. He serves on the board of directors; chairs the Building Committee; is a Young Farmer Committee member; and keeps involved with the Community Action Group. West graduated from MSU with a bachelor's degree in agriscience education. He and his wife Erin have four children.