James is an incoming senior at Texas A&M University, where she is pursuing a degree in agricultural communications and journalism and a minor in agricultural economics. She is a member of Texas Aggie CattleWomen and Agricultural Communicators of Tomorrow, two student-run organizations that promote the beef and agricultural industries on campus.

Immersed in the beef industry from a young age, James grew up on Six J Cattle Company in Schulenburg, Texas, where she helped her family breed and show purebred Red Angus cattle. If she wasn’t cleaning stalls or working heifers, she was likely perched on a round bale with a book in her hand. Today, James still enjoys helping her younger sister with her show projects and discussing breeding decisions with her dad when she is home from college.

“I believe agriculture is the beating heart of our country, and the stories we share have the power to connect producer to consumer,” James said. “It is a privilege to work for a publication that allows me to merge my passion and voice for the beef industry.”

Prior to working for Progressive Publishing, James was a social media and writing intern for the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo and the State Fair of Texas Livestock Show, where she wrote press releases and feature stories. In addition, she was responsible for creating social media content and editing photos for web use. She also spent the summer of 2020 as a social media and ranch intern for IX Ranch in Big Sandy, Montana, where she received firsthand experience on the daily duties of a working cattle and horse operation.

James was an active member of FFA, advancing to the state level in forage and livestock judging, and exhibiting heifers at local and major livestock shows across Texas. She also competed in feature, editorial and headline writing in the University Interscholastic League, where she developed a love for crafting powerful, factual stories. Her involvement in both programs fueled her decision to pursue a career in agricultural journalism, with the intent of giving beef cattle producers a voice in today’s media. 

“The team at Progressive Publishing has welcomed me with warmth and encouragement,” James said. “I am eager to learn, expand my skill set and network with other industry professionals throughout my internship.”