Hi, I’m Gavin Nelson, an agricultural education instructor from Howells, NE, with a passion for helping students grow both in and out of the classroom. I knew I wanted to be a teacher early on in high school, where I naturally gravitated toward leadership roles and enjoyed helping my peers, especially through FFA and Ag classes. That experience showed me how rewarding education could be, and it confirmed my calling to become a teacher. I’m especially passionate about connecting classroom learning to real-life experiences and showing students the endless opportunities in agriculture. Being the son of a seed salesman and agronomist, my passion for agriculture began at an early age. I was often called upon to help my dad do many miscellaneous jobs at his business. This instilled a strong work ethic in me and paved the way for who I am today. My love for agriculture was furthered through my involvement in 4-H and FFA throughout my youth and high school days. 

Along with teaching, I have a strong passion for coaching. I love guiding students through challenges, helping them set goals, and watching them grow—whether that’s in a CDE contest, on the field, or in life. Outside of school, I enjoy playing golf and following my favorite sports teams. Both help me unwind and keep my competitive spirit alive. Education and coaching go hand-in-hand for me, and I’m proud to play a role in shaping the next generation of leaders.