Member Spotlight

The desire to work in big-time finance in a small town environment lead William (Bill) Barnes, ARA to make a career in rural appraisal.  He joined ASFMRA in the 80’s for the appraisal education and professional growth opportunities and has held membership ever since.  “I have stayed a member for the professional networking opportunities, the relationships I have developed over 30 years all over the country and still the excellent agricultural appraisal education opportunities,” said Bill.  “No matter where in the United States Farm Credit of Southern Colorado may have a potential loan, I “know a guy” I can call to help us accurately value that property for a sound lending decision.”  The national network he has been able to build of real estate professionals and agricultural peers has been a huge asset to him.

Passionate about building the next generation of farm and ranch appraisers, Bill enjoys teaching and uses his expertise to share knowledge and advice.  His biggest piece of advice to young professionals hoping for a career in ag is to be open to different opportunities.  “Be flexible. For the first five years, go anywhere, do anything to gain experience.  Bring your IT skills, social media savvy and computer expertise and share it with older employees.” According to Bill, that experience is invaluable and you will be able to leverage it later and then you can be picky about where you live and work. 

Leveraging your ASFMRA membership by taking advantage of networking opportunities can help you gain the vital experience Bill describes.  Bill also stresses the importance of developing your interpersonal skills, business communication skills and writing skills.  They are skills you use every day that will not lose value as you further your career.

When he is not working Bill can be found travelling, enjoying the outdoors, and tending to his farm with his wife of 37 years, Leslie.  They raise irrigated alfalfa, apples, peaches, grapes and bees for honey. They have three grown college graduate children who are spread out across the country from Kodiak, AK to Washington D.C.

Little known fact:  Bill received his Accredited Rural Appraiser designation at the Annual Conference in Savannah, Georgia. Sara Wilson, ARA who also works for Farm Credit of Southern Colorado and is part of Bill’s team will receive her ARA at our Annual Conference this year, in Savannah, Georgia.