Cole Baerlocher is a senior at Texas A&M University majoring in agricultural communications and journalism with a minor in international agricultural development. Originally from Colfax, Washington, he came to Texas A&M after completing a gap year serving as a 2021–2022 National FFA Officer. His academic interests are rooted in the social sciences, particularly research that examines how people perceive agriculture and how policy shapes agricultural systems in developing countries.
Cole’s current research focuses on qualitative analysis of new agricultural policies related to emerging artificial intelligence technologies. Through the Science Influencers REEU program, he seeks to strengthen his ability to effectively communicate research methodology, data, and results. He hopes to apply these skills in a future career as an agricultural legislative staffer on Capitol Hill, contributing to informed decision-making at the policy level.