South Carolina growers depend on Brad Fowler for research-based solutions to challenges in their fields.
A commercial horticulture agent with the Clemson Cooperative Extension Service, he plans to use the knowledge and experience gained from earning a master’s degree from Clemson University to better help the producers and communities he serves in Dillon, Georgetown, Horry, Marion and Williamsburg counties.
South Carolina roots
Fowler, who earned his bachelor’s degree in horticulture from Clemson in 2010, has deep roots in South Carolina agriculture. Growing up in Green Sea, he learned about farming and horticulture from his family, whose work in farming and the landscape industry sparked a lifelong passion.
“I grew up in a rural area where farming, gardening and just being outside were an integral part of life,” he said. “My grandad farmed. My dad farmed and later worked for farm supply companies. I was always either in the garden or the yard helping my parents and grandparents. They might not have realized it or used the formal name for it, but they were all my first horticulture teachers.”
Although he considered graduate school after completing his undergraduate degree, career opportunities came first. Returning to Clemson as an Extension employee gave him the chance to pursue that goal while continuing to work full-time.
A balancing act
Balancing graduate school, a career and family life required commitment, but Fowler says the experience has been worthwhile because it allows him to better serve South Carolina’s agricultural community.
“Life has felt a little hectic over the last couple of years,” he said. “And while it became a bit of a balancing act, I am very fortunate to have had the opportunity to go back to school,” he said. “I don’t take it for granted.”
He graduates in August with a master’s degree in agricultural education. Fowler credits his family for making that possible.
“I am blessed with an awesome wife, Allie, and our 5-year-old son, Mac, who encouraged me throughout the entire process,” he said. “Even with quite a few late nights, they never complained, and Allie always made sure life never got too chaotic.”
He also expressed gratitude for the support of his parents and in-laws, adding, “I thank God every day for the support system I have around me.”
Turning research into practical solutions
Graduate study has strengthened Fowler’s ability to translate Clemson research into practical recommendations for growers, homeowners and agricultural professionals. In addition to working directly with producers, he shares research-based information with a broader audience through workshops and broadcast media, including appearing on TALK 94.5, a radio station serving the Grand Strand region.
“Agricultural education is a great route to take when working in Extension because we are essentially teaching the public about agriculture,” Fowler said. “The better educated we are as Extension agents, the more prepared we are to help our clients.”
Colleagues say Fowler’s investment in continuing education directly benefits the people he serves.
“His commitment to professional growth strengthens his ability to address complex horticultural issues, provide research-based recommendations and develop innovative programs,” said Michael McManus, Clemson Extension Pee Dee district director.
Cory Tanner, Clemson Extension horticulture team director, praised Fowler for successfully balancing graduate school with a full-time career and a young family.
For Fowler, the master’s degree isn’t the finish line. It’s another tool that will help him continue serving the South Carolina communities that first inspired his love of agriculture.
“I had a couple of other stops along my career path before starting with Extension, and I can honestly say I have no desire to be anywhere else,” he said.
