10 / SEEDWORLD.COM SEPTEMBER 2017 OFF THE JOB: IT’S ABOUT FAITH AND FAMILY Sierra Hartney, this year’s recipient of the Future Giant of the industry award, says two things have contributed to success: her faith and family, particularly her husband. “I have an amazing husband,” she says. “Jason and I will celebrate our 18th wedding anniversary this September. I am not saying I didn’t have goals to be a doctor when I was a kid or that my parents didn’t support my goals, because they always supported my dreams to go to college and do something in science.” But, Hartney says that Jason is a very special person who helped her find her faith and overcome some destructive behavior. “College takes a lot of time and commitment to do well, and money,” she adds. “I managed to get grants, and Jason worked to pay our bills and extra tuition costs. We are a team. And when I moved us every couple of years so I could get my next degree, he was right there for me. I joke that he should have an honorary degree since he helped me prep for tests and read my papers. I know I’m a capable person and learned to be self-reliant at a young age, but I am very thankful to have the support.” Hartney and her husband also have two children, an 8-year-old boy, and a 6-year-old girl. “As a working mom. I really value my time with the kids,” she says. “I try not to put my interests onto my kids, but my son shares my love of science and nature documentaries and reading. My daughter and I share baking, hanging out with our chickens in the backyard and playing in the dirt. “As a family, we do the best we can to find balance between work, school and chores. Sometimes it is better to just let the laundry wait and go to the beach or spend a day in the woods.” THE MARKET’S MOST COMPREHENSIVE PRODUCT LINE Whether you’re looking for the latest portable treatment system for on-site treating or a bulk-treating site, your Certified USC Dealer has the right solution to fit your operation. With 66 locations throughout North America, expert service is always nearby! SEEDTREATINGSYSTEMS FOR THE WAY YOU TREAT SEED Find Your Local Dealer USCLLC.com Industry Leader. Industry Innovator. Ph. 866.729.1623 USC-111F.indd 1 7/25/17 8:23 AM and the Western Washington Small Seed Advisory Council based in Skagit Valley. During the next few years for the veg- etable seed industry, she sees the contin- uing development of global markets and global production of seed. “For pathology, this means under- standing phytosanitary requirements and how they might change,” she explains. “And for developing disease resistance, an understanding of what diseases are impactful globally will be important.” As for her ultimate career goals, they are very straightforward: To do plant pathology for as long as possible. “Pathologists tend to have long shelf lives,” Hartney says. “I’m hoping that even if I can’t see the tiny spores on the under- side of a spinach leaf — unless I have a magnifying glass — I will still be able to get out into the field and keep solving disease puzzles. “I also enjoy teaching and education. I have gotten to speak to school kids, and it is so great to share where our food comes from. Sakata has provided me a climate in which I can thrive and give back. I hope to contribute for many years.” SW