35 under 35
Mariah Messink Shaw Kappa Tau - Morehead State University
Herd Manager, Shaw Family Dairy
Which of the Delta Zeta shared values resonates with you the most? Community
How did you discover your passion for what you do, and what opportunities have helped shape your career?
My grandmother who was the greatest influence on my life passed when I was 13. I needed something positive to fill the hole she left. I chose to join 4-H and began showing livestock, and the rest is truly history. I turned grief and mourning into purpose and joy. Having several other Delta Zeta sisters majoring in agriculture really helped to give me the motivation and support to continue. I would have to say my success in the agricultural pageant systems definitely propelled me forward.
Who has been an invaluable mentor for your professional career? What did you learn from them?
There’s been so many amazing people who inspired or mentored me in my career. Before, during and shortly after my collegiate career livestock judges and educators Lindsey Shaffer Pullen, Warren Beeler and Brad Johnson were huge influences on the trajectory of my career. Warren taught me everything I know about pigs and how to be influential while making genuine individual impact. Lindsey was an integral part of teaching me to become an overcomer, blaze trails and be confident as a female in a male dominated industry. Brad taught me how to stay true to myself and grow a tough exterior to push myself out of my comfort zone.
What words of wisdom or advice do you live by?
Always educate with truth accompanied by love, support and encouragement. This has proved to be essential in the role of consumer education I often play within our industry.
What is the most impactful book you have read, or podcast you have listened to, that relates to you professionally? What made it so impactful?
There are several books and movements that have impacted my career. “You Are The Girl for The Job,” “Grace Grit & Lipstick” and “Girl, Wash Your Face.” The movements that have impacted me are riding high ministries and fancy lady cowgirl. All of these have one thing in common being unapologetically yourself staying true to your God given identity and value. That’s been so impactful for me because I’ve been able to handle rejection gracefully over time and truly be my undiluted self; feminine, sparkly, social and caring in a male dominated industry knowing I’m qualified and capable.
How do you make sure you stay connected with your professional network?
It’s much easier to stay connected when it isn’t just your job but your livelihood. We eat, sleep and breathe agriculture so 90 percent of all we do helps to keep us connected. We do attend a lot of industry events and conferences.
How have friendships helped you professionally? Is there a friend (or Delta Zeta sister) that has been behind you every step of the way on your career journey?
Friendships have allowed me to receive interview opportunities and positive references for job applications. Throughout my career journey, I’ve come into contact with several of my pledge class sisters also in the industry. It’s the type of career path that is vast but very intimate. Everyone knows everyone.
What is your favorite thing to do outside of work?
Baking