Rick received a BS in Agriculture from Angelo State University in 1981, an MS and PhD in Animal Nutrition from Texas A&M University in 1984 and 1987, respectively.
Rick began his professional career with a beef cattle research appointment at the University of Florida IFAS station at Ona. In 1989, he returned to Texas to pursue his passion for teaching and natural resource management as an Extension Specialist. For almost three decades, he provided leadership to regional and statewide extension learning opportunities for resource managers and enthusiasts of all ages.
In 2016, Rick transitioned to the King Ranch® Institute for Ranch Management on the Texas A&M University-Kingsville campus and currently serves as the Executive Director. Rick mentors graduate students, teaches graduate courses, and leads the development and conduct of numerous outreach education events.