Jan retired in 2024 after working 28 years in ornamental plant production and 15 years in distribution, providing technical support and production supplies to greenhouse and nursery producers, as well as landscapers.
With over 4,000 farms, agriculture is an important industry in San Diego. However, most of the county residents live in urban areas without a strong connection with agriculture. SDAITC and the garden grants can help students understand ag literacy and perhaps spark a lifelong joy of gardening and future career choices.
Jan is very active in local agricultural leadership. She is currently the president of the San Diego CAPCA (California Association of Pest Control Advisors) chapter. Jan is also on the CAN (California Association of Nurseries) research committee. Jan is an advisor to the San Diego County Flower & Plant Association and a member of their scholarship committee. In addition, Jan has been a member of the APS (American Phytopathological Society) and has helped to organize several Pest Control Conferences for the Society of American Florists.