Each month, we highlight an Ohio 4-H alum whose journey reflects the program’s lasting impact. This month, we are proud to feature Than Hartsock, a Ross County 4-H alum who has carried the lessons of his 4-H years into a successful career with John Deere.
Than’s 4-H story began long before he ever enrolled—his father was both a 4-H alum and advisor, making the program a natural fit. Than joined the Junior Livestock Growers 4-H Club in third grade, a long-standing club in Ross County where many of his classmates and their families were also involved.
While his family’s farm focused on corn, soybeans, and wheat production, Than showed sheep for his first seven years in 4-H, switching to market steers for his final three. His best friend showed cattle at the same fair, and Than wanted to join him. That decision opened doors far beyond the county line, connecting him to a wider agricultural community as the two began competing at jackpot and national shows across Ohio and the country.
Showing cattle also gave Than his favorite 4-H memory—winning Reserve Grand Champion while his best friend won Grand Champion in their final year. After months of early mornings, late nights, and shared determination, standing side by side in the ring and meeting their goal at the Ross County Fair became a moment he still treasures.
Than also looked forward to 4-H Camp each summer. The traditions at Tar Hollow made a lasting impression, giving him the chance to meet youth from outside his school and form friendships rooted in their shared identity as 4-H members. Sea Camp pushed him even further, challenging him to step outside his comfort zone and introducing him to the science of the Great Lakes—an entirely new world for someone who grew up in southern Ohio.
As he grew older, Than continued stretching himself by serving as a club officer. These roles helped him build confidence and learn how to run effective meetings using Robert’s Rules of Order. He credits his advisor, Mary Harp, for encouraging him to take on leadership positions and for consistently believing in his potential.
Mary played a pivotal role throughout Than’s 4-H career. From his earliest days as a new member through his transition into adulthood, she created an environment that was nurturing, structured, and grounded in accountability. “Mary challenged me to have an impact by the end of my 4-H career,” Than reflected. “Because of Mary, when I moved to Iowa, I found a club for my children and then served as an advisor for several years.” Her influence continues to shape the way he leads, parents, and gives back.
The lessons Than learned in 4-H—including being “comfortable being uncomfortable”—have carried into his professional life. He earned a bachelor’s degree in crop science from The Ohio State University and a master’s degree in soil science from the University of Kentucky. In 2001, he joined John Deere, where he has built a career in precision agriculture technology. Today, he serves as Vice President of Precision Upgrades, helping develop technology that can be retrofitted to older equipment. He credits 4-H with sparking his interest in STEM, strengthening his communication skills, and instilling the discipline and accountability that guide his work.
Than encourages today’s 4-H members to embrace every opportunity the program offers. “Explore the boundaries of the opportunities that exist to 4-H members,” he said. “Look at it as an opportunity to build a network that is wide, as this will carry with you throughout your life.”
Now living in Iowa, Than continues to support 4-H by staying involved in his local community and encouraging youth to give the program a try. He also helps bridge the worlds of 4-H and FFA, showing young people how both can fit into their lives. As an Ohio State alum, he remains connected to Ohio 4-H and gives back as a donor to both state and Ross County programs. His commitment to service reflects the same values he learned as a young member—values he now passes on to the next generation.