Freebairn Completes Summer Internship In Council Headquarters

Emma Freebairn, who has served as an intern in the U.S. Grains Council’s (USGC’s) ethanol and industry relations departments in Washington, D.C. since May, completed her Nebraska Corn Board-sponsored internship on Friday, July 21.

During her time with the Council, Freebairn assisted the ethanol and industry relations teams on projects relating to the upcoming Global Ethanol Summit.

Global Update editors sat down with Freebairn to discuss her experience with the Council this summer.

What were some of the projects you worked on during your time at the Council?

I primarily provided support to the industry relations and ethanol teams planning the Global Ethanol Summit the Council is hosting in October. Some of these projects included tracking speaker invitations, creating promotional items and assisting with conference signage. These projects gave me firsthand experience working with vendors in event planning. I also assisted the industry relations team with logistics and packing for the 63rd Annual Board of Delegates Meeting.

A few of my projects also crossed over into the communications department. This included creating ethanol infographics and membership materials. I also prepared meeting materials and rooms for groups visiting the office. My day-to-day always looked very different, and working with two teams meant I was included on many smaller projects as well.

Is there one moment or memory from your time with USGC that stands out in your mind?

My favorite memory was traveling to the Global Ethanol Summit location in Reston, VA. I was able to accompany USGC Meetings Manager Teresa Myers on a site visit to discuss sponsorship banners, room layout and other event details. With my interest in event planning, this day really allowed me to see firsthand how meetings and conferences come together and gave me a better understanding of all the behind-the-scenes work that must be done.

What was your favorite part about spending the summer with the Council?

Without a doubt it’s the people I had the opportunity to work with. From the start of my first day, everyone on the staff went out of their way to make me feel welcome and included. Having the chance to collaborate with such driven people who are so passionate about the work they do made coming to the office every day so enjoyable. Working with the Council, I felt like a valued member of the team.

Another aspect I enjoyed was learning how the U.S. Grains Council works to promote international trade. As someone who grew up on a grain and beef farm, agriculture has always been a part of my life. However, my prior knowledge was very limited to domestic markets. This summer allowed me to gain a better understanding of exports, international markets and the importance of building long-lasting relationships to enable trade.

What are your plans moving forward?

This fall I am returning to Iowa State University as a senior studying agricultural communications. My internship gave me the experience in event planning I had been searching for, while simultaneously fueling my interest in international agriculture and trade. I am looking forward to using this experience to guide my career search upon graduation.

Any parting words as you move on from USGC?

I want to express my gratitude to the U.S. Grains Council for the opportunity to join your team this summer. My internship was full of learning opportunities, sharpening my skills and making valuable connections. I can’t wait to take the experiences and skills I gained this summer to whatever role I find myself in next. Thank you for a summer I won’t forget!

Please join the Council in congratulating Emma on a successful summer in the Council’s headquarters.