In this episode of Selling in the Paddock, Georgia sits down with Connor Steel, Horticultural Agronomist at Elders, to unpack a nine-year journey in ag—from a year 12 biology spark and a gap year on farms, to YMCAA pool decks, Coles freezer shifts, and ultimately the front lines of plant health.
Connor shares how work ethic and curiosity shaped his path, what a “plant doctor” actually does day-to-day across leafy veg, herbs, tomatoes, ornamentals (plus a little canola and wheat), and why long-term success in agronomy hinges on trust, clear communication, and solution-led advice (including when not to sell). We dig into constructive conflict with growers, recovering trust when expectations slip, and the power of small, honest moments that build relationships over time. Connor also lifts the lid on the Growing Leaders program, mentoring the next wave of agronomists, and practical advice for anyone entering ag.
The moment biology beat vet science (and why dissecting a chook was the clincher)
Lessons from Coles and the YMCA: work ethic, service, and people skills that transfer to ag sales
A day in the life of a horticultural agronomist: plant health, soil, IPM, labels/MRLs, and timing the call to spray
Sales vs service: how to advise not to apply, and still deepen trust
Constructive conflict: disagreeing well, staying factual, and repairing rapport
Celebrating wins (even when no one claps) and leaning on your team and family
Growing Leaders: networking, sharpening skills, and why ambition + humility matters
Mentoring grads and paid summer roles—creating real pathways into the industry
Career advice for new starters: don’t fear “no”, be yourself, take your time, and focus on helping
Trust is built in small acts—honest recommendations, keeping promises, and front-foot communication.
Solution before product—start with the grower’s goal, then work backwards.
Conflict is healthy when there’s rapport; it drives better decisions and outcomes.
** careers aren’t linear**—gap years, odd jobs, and mentors all compound.
Be valuable by being helpful—curiosity and service beat hard selling.
Connor Steel is a Horticultural Agronomist with Elders, specialising in leafy veg, herbs, tomatoes and ornamentals, with additional experience in winter broadacre. He’s passionate about solution-led agronomy, mentoring grads, and continual learning through programs like Growing Leaders.
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