Growing up on a farm near Eufaula, Oklahoma, Dr. Shroyer was exposed at an early age to a diversity of interests because of the tourism industry that built up around Lake Eufaula. Dr. Shroyer invested his interest as a member of both the livestock and soil judging teams. He began to focus on science in high school, and his continued interest in science led to his graduation in 1974 with a Bachelor of Science in Zoology from Oklahoma State University.

Upon graduating, Dr. Shroyer began his professional career teaching 8th grade science in Oklahoma. He then worked on the family farm for a while before going on to complete his Masters in Agronomy in Weed Science from OSU in 1977. He then earned his Doctorate in 1980 from Iowa State University in Crop Physiology and Production. During his Ph.D. work, Dr. Shroyer was an Extension Associate at ISU. In 1980 he took a position with K-State as an assistant professor and state Extension specialist in crop production.

“At the time the crop production specialist position covered all crops,” Dr. Shroyer said. “I thought that working as a general agronomist was a great position.”

Dr. Shroyer is now the Extension Agronomy Program State Leader and crop production specialist for wheat and alfalfa. Through his position he assists producers directly by advising them on practical production concerns. The other portion of his time is spent interacting with County Extension Agents as they develop county programs, and teaching an undergraduate course in crop production.

“The bottom line is building relationships,” Dr. Shroyer said. “It’s that way with all jobs, but in order to make an impact as an Extension Specialist I have to also be able to communicate.”

Although he specializes in agriculture, Dr. Shroyer has always been a product of the diversity of his upbringing. His favorite past time is birding, traveling, and listening to a wide variety of music, both current and past. Shroyer said he would watch birds full-time if he could earn money doing it.