Yesterday, Mount Zion Illinois CEO welcomed Seth Baker and Tom Courson of Field Level Ag for a conversation about entrepreneurship, relationships, integrity, teamwork, and the many opportunities available in agriculture.
One of the most meaningful lessons from their visit was that successful businesses are often built on relationships that begin long before a formal partnership or business opportunity takes shape. Seth and Tom’s partnership began nearly 20 years before they became business partners, and many of the people they have hired came through connections developed over time.
Their story reminded students that entrepreneurship is not always about creating something entirely new. It can also mean recognizing an opportunity, improving it, and building strong relationships along the way.
Seth and Tom also demonstrated the value of combining different strengths. Seth brings an analytical, appraisal-focused perspective, while Tom focuses more on people and farm management. Their partnership works because their skills complement one another.
They encouraged students to build teams with people who bring different abilities, perspectives, and experiences. No entrepreneur can know how to do everything, but successful leaders recognize what needs to be done and know how to find the right people and resources to help.
Seth shared that he wishes he had access to a program like CEO when he was younger. When he started his business, he had to search for answers and navigate many challenges on his own. CEO gives students an important head start by introducing them to business leaders, community resources, career opportunities, and support systems they may not otherwise know exist.
Tom also spoke from the perspective of a parent of a CEO alumnus. He explained that the program helped his son develop confidence, communication skills, and a stronger understanding of business and professional relationships. Those skills helped him stand out and prepared him to interact more effectively in professional settings.
Their work with farm clients provided another important lesson about responsibility. Field Level Ag helps manage one of a farmer’s most valuable and emotional assets: the farm itself. Their role is to listen carefully, understand each client’s goals, and work on the client’s behalf. Doing so requires trust, clear communication, and a commitment to doing what is right.
Integrity and reputation were central themes throughout the discussion. Seth and Tom emphasized the importance of proving yourself through consistent, quality work; remaining honest and humble; following through on commitments; communicating clearly; and avoiding overpromising. They also discussed the importance of creating a workplace culture where employees trust one another and communicate openly.
Their message was both realistic and encouraging. Business includes mistakes, setbacks, and failure, but failure is not the end. Instead, it can provide some of the best opportunities to learn and improve. Even when dishonest people appear to get ahead or competitors succeed by cutting corners, Seth and Tom believe businesses built on trust and integrity are more likely to succeed over time.
Students asked thoughtful questions and gained insight into an agricultural business opportunity that many people may not know much about. We are grateful to Seth and Tom for supporting CEO since its beginning. Both have served on the CEO Board, continue to support the program as investors, and contribute their time and expertise. Tom serves as a mentor, while Seth currently serves on the Board.
Thank you, Seth and Tom, for sharing your experience, wisdom, and encouragement with our students. Field Level Agriculture Inc.
