Blanek named AgriLife Extension administrator in Far West Texas
Will provide leadership in educational program impact, community engagement
The Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service named Josh Blanek as the new district administrator over 23 counties in Far West Texas, headquartered in Fort Stockton, effective June 1.
Blanek will recruit and supervise AgriLife Extension agents in agriculture and natural resources, family and community health, and Texas 4-H Youth Development programming, said Donald Kelm, Ph.D., associate director for county operations.
“Josh’s leadership experience in program development and building stakeholder relationships will serve the region well as he coordinates with county commissioners courts and helps implement local programs that meet community needs,” Kelm said.
Extensive experience in county programming
For 24 years, Blanek has served as an AgriLife Extension agent in Tom Green, Andrews, Somervell and Williamson counties.
Highlights of his leadership include developing youth livestock projects and educational programs on agricultural and natural resources for farmers and ranchers. His initiatives have focused on crop production as well as sheep and goat production.
Blanek’s track record and experience in program coordination, resource development and mentoring AgriLife Extension professionals make him well-prepared for this new role.
“I’ve served in single-agent counties where one agent is responsible for all programming, as well as in more populated counties with a larger staff and more specialized agent roles,” Blanek said.
“My goal is to work with staff throughout the district to strengthen collaboration among AgriLife Extension agents, agricultural producers, community partners and health professionals to expand the strong history of AgriLife Extension programs in Far West Texas.”
Awards and recognition
Blanek is a recipient of the AgriLife Extension Superior Service Award and has been recognized with distinguished service and outstanding agent awards from professional associations such as the National Association of County Agricultural Agents, the Texas County Agricultural Agents Association, the Texas Grain Sorghum Association and the Texas Sheep and Goat Raisers Association. He earned a bachelor’s degree in animal science from Angelo State University and a master’s degree in agricultural education from Tarleton State University.
