As an extension plant pathologist, I’ve taken the approach of serving my mission and industries by establishing partnerships and collaborations with a wide range of individuals and agencies. Establishing a network among growers, extension educators, field scouts, registrants, IR-4, EPA, plant pathologists, molecular biologists, plant breeders, horticulturalists, entomologists, and others is a key strategy that has helped deliver answers and solutions in response to complex disease problems. Engaging undergraduate and graduate students and introducing them to this network increases their job readiness by providing the professional skill set needed to excel in an increasingly challenging career environment.