Alumni Spotlight: Elena Templet

What did you study at LSU, and what year did you graduate?

At LSU, I studied Agricultural and Extension Education with a concentration in Agricultural Leadership and Development. I earned my Bachelor of Science in December 2023.

Tell us about your current role and what you enjoy most about it.

I currently work for Ardent Mills, a leading flour milling company with 40 locations across the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico. In July, I was promoted to Production Scheduler at our flour mill in Albany, NY. In this role, I create and manage the manufacturing schedule and serve as a key point of communication between our operations team, sales team, producers, and customers. Previously, I was an Operations Development Associate at our Martins Creek, PA mill, where I participated in a rotational program to gain a comprehensive understanding of both production and business operations. The thing I enjoy most about my work in both positions is the opportunity to connect with people at every level of the business, from farmers to our CEO.

What was your career path like after graduating? Any unexpected turns?

Right after graduation, I joined Ardent Mills. I first connected with the company through the LSU College of Agriculture Career Fair, which led to interviews and ultimately a position. While I received multiple position offers before graduation, I found that the Ardent Mills’ values aligned with my personal values and goals, which have helped create a very rewarding start to my career.

How did your experience at LSU prepare you for the workforce?

My time at LSU thoroughly prepared me for the workforce both in and outside of the classroom. Through my major, I was able to take classes surrounding communication, adult learning, and of course agriculture. I use my communication skills every day, ensuring that I can effectively engage with my target audience. My courses in adult learning have been my greatest asset in my workforce experience, as they have changed my perspective on interpersonal challenges, teaching me that many problems are caused by a lack of knowledge and understanding by one or more parties. Finally, my agricultural classes taught me about my industry! I do not come from a traditional agricultural background and learned most of what I know about the agricultural industry from my experiences while at LSU. Outside of class, I was engaged in many clubs and extracurricular activities including but not limited to Sigma Alpha, Ducks Unlimited Tiger Chapter, and the Student Chapter of the Society of Wetland Scientists at LSU. These programs taught me various skills in time management, organization, leadership and problem solving.

What industry trends or challenges are you currently seeing in your field?

I am excited to see Ardent Mills’ ability to predict and find solutions for trends in the changing needs of our customers. From developing alternative flours made with chickpeas to creating gluten-free blends, our Emerging Nutrition team is staying ahead of the curve. Our R&D department is also continuously working on ingredient replacements, such as the new alternatives for eggs and cocoa, that help stabilize costs for our customers. This company's ability to create new products to match the needs of the market has been extremely interesting to see as I start out my career!

What advice do you have for students or recent grads entering the job market?

My main advice is to utilize your resources and mentors. I would not be where I am today without the mentorship that I gained from my work with the College of Agriculture dean’s staff and professors. Take full advantage of career fairs, resume workshops, and networking events. These relationships built during college can open unexpected doors and offer lasting guidance.

How do you stay connected to the LSU Ag community and support others in the field?

I stay connected to others in my field by continuing to support the agricultural community and agricultural education. I continue to engage in volunteer opportunities with Louisiana 4-H, as well as being an active member of my company’s National FFA alumni and supporters chapter, which has allowed me to volunteer on local and national levels. I also continue to engage with LSU College of Agriculture through donations and continued mentorships with my former peers.