Faces of Semios is our series putting the spotlight on the incredible people behind Semios — the folks out in the field every day, building relationships and helping growers thrive. We sit down with a Semios team member to learn a little more about what drives them, both professionally and personally.
Joining the Semios team back in 2024, Jeff Thorning is our Territory Manager for Stanislaus & San Joaquin Counties in California. Having had two decades-worth of history working in the ag industry, he has seen a bit of everything, including the ever-changing landscape for growers out here in the Central Valley.
The one thing that stayed constant throughout the years is the care that almost every farmer he has met puts into their farm to leave it a better and healthier place than when they took over. And that kind of dedication to their land and work is what Jeff also reflects in his own passion for his job and the growers he works with.
Join us as we catch up with Jeff on his journey into ag, and the things that keep him passionate about his work, season after season.
Tell us a bit about your background. What was your journey to working in agtech?
I grew up in a small town in Kansas and moved to California when I was 14. I thought it would be sandy beaches, Hollywood and all that, but we landed in the Central Valley. Funny enough, I ended up knowing more farmers’ kids in California than I did back in Kansas.
You’ve spent 20+ years in ag. What initially drew you to this industry and what’s kept you here?
I was working in finance prior to 2007, and when the company I worked for shut down my division, I was ready for a change. At that time, my father-in-law asked if I ever considered working in ag. Once I gave it a try, I fell in love with the job, culture, and the people.
What's the most rewarding part of working with growers?
The most rewarding part is gaining their hard-earned trust. It can be from sharing some knowledge you have or just showing up when others don't. Prior to Semios, I worked in a frost control business for many years. When it gets cold, or when the temperatures are forecasted to drop, getting someone the part they need is critical to their whole growing season. I have earned many customers’ trust by going the extra mile, literally.
What does a typical day working at Semios look like for you?
One of the things I love about Semios is that there really isn’t a typical day. Many times I have a plan for what the day will hold and I end up doing something completely different for 10 hours. I really try to have a “real” talk (no email or text) with a grower as often as possible because that human connection matters.
What do you love most about working at Semios?
The Team. The Sales Team here has a ton of knowledge and they’re always willing to share it if asked. Our Field Services team is also always willing to do what it takes to provide the best customer service.
As a father, what have your kids taught you that’s made you better at your job?
Patience and effort. After trying to teach your kids to “stick with it” and “give it your all”, it really forces you to do those things in your life as well.
If your kids have to describe what you do for a living, what do you think they’d say?
My girls would say that I help farmers keep the bugs out. My son would say that I am stopping all the bugs from having any fun.
If you could give one piece of advice about ag technology, what would it be?
Try something, no matter how small, every year. Some of my favorite growers that I’ve worked with are the ones that take the first step to try something new to solve their problems. I’ve noticed they end up leading the way, and there’s always a group of growers watching for the results. There’s no better time to start than now!
What’s a perfect weekend for you?
It’s been awhile but, camping with the family. There’s no better way to get everyone off their phones and truly talking. I also enjoy some golf though I’ll admit I’m not good at it.
Rapid fire
What’s your superpower: Out-of-the-Box Thinking
Favorite way to unwind: Baseball Game with friends and family
Interested in learning how Semios can support your operations? Jeff is here to help. Get in touch today >