Kal Harder recently graduated from Northcentral Technical College (NTC). She was selected as National Vice President for the Professional Agricultural Students (PAS) organization. PAS is student-led and focuses on preparing students for careers in agriculture. It provides opportunities for industry engagement and career readiness.
Reflecting on her new role, Harder explained, “The National Professional Agricultural Students organization is about getting students ready for their careers and building relationships with industry leaders across the United States. It’s about creating connections that will benefit students as they enter the workforce.”
Harder’s journey to this national position began with an intensive interview process. “We had to do group projects, help current officers with conference tasks, and demonstrate leadership skills throughout the three-day event,” she shared. “The selection committee watched us the entire time, observing how we worked behind the scenes and interacted with others.”
Harder attributes much of her confidence to her previous experience as Wisconsin State President for PAS. As National Vice President of Conference Planning, Harder is responsible for organizing the upcoming PAS conference in Wyoming. “I’m currently designing backdrops, creating the logo for the conference theme, and figuring out the logistics of how everything will come together,” she said. “We visited Wyoming in June to get a sense of the venue, and now it’s all about planning and promotion.”
In addition to conference planning, Harder is also expanding her skills in information technology and graphic design. “I’m learning to manage the PAS website and create promotional materials, which has been a great learning experience. These skills have helped me in my role as a Certified Veterinary Technician, where communication and technology play a big part.”
Harder believes her involvement with PAS has been invaluable, particularly in developing her interpersonal skills. “PAS has taught me how to communicate with a wide range of people. This is crucial in my job as a veterinary technician. Whether it’s clients who are eager to help their pets or those who need more guidance, PAS has helped me become more adaptable.”
For students considering joining PAS or pursuing a career in agriculture, Harder offers simple yet powerful advice: “Go for it. It’s been so much fun, and I’ve made lifelong friends. PAS is a great opportunity to grow both personally and professionally.”
