128 Millennium - A Marquis Who’s Who Magazine SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY AND ENGINEERING with a few horses, cows and pigs. In 1947, after 80 years of operation, the family decided to specialize in dairy farming. This remains their primary focus, although they also grow crops such as corn, soybeans, rye, oats and wheat for animal feed and sellable produce. Through her work, Ms. Davis has learned the importance of patience, particularly understanding that processes take time. She also recognizes that being open-minded is crucial, especially during brainstorming sessions where out-of-the-box ideas might combine to form effective solutions. Continuous learning from those around her is critical to Ms. Davis, whether she is working with family members, reading industry publications or collaborating with experts, such as veterinarians, nutritionists and crop specialists. She understands that success is a collective effort and emphasizes the importance of teamwork. A few years ago, Kathy Davis was baling straw in a field when an eagle landed nearby and watched her work. The moment highlighted the beauty of nature, which she finds both motivating and comforting during difficult times. Through her agricultural work, she feels strongly about preserving a connection to the land, not only for herself but for everyone. Ms. Davis is the owner, operator and young stock manager at Ayers Farms Inc., a family-run agricultural operation. The farm and land have been in her family for seven generations, and she collaborates with her mother, father, aunt, uncle and cousin to manage it effectively. Brought up to work on and learn all aspects of the operation, she has spent the last 32 years in her official position. An expert in managing young stock from birth to the pre-calving stage, Ms. Davis oversees heifer feeding, housing, movement and agebased pen transitions. She administers and coordinates vaccination protocols and supports breeding program operations and reproductive planning. Her additional responsibilities include scheduling daily and long-term farm operations, coordinating with staff, and collaborating with veterinarians and animal nutritionists. She also helps manage the production and storage of the farm’s crops. Ayers Farm has gone through many changes over the years. It began as a small operation KATHY DAVIS OWNER, OPERATOR, YOUNG STOCK MANAGER Ayers Farms Inc. Perrysville, OH
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTQ5NDA2