TEXARKANA MAGAZINE
Often, when looking at those who possess the appropriate skill set, you will find they have been preparing for the role their entire life. Sometimes, farming is passed down from generation to generation. Or sometimes, like in the case of Zach Koller, it becomes a life born a little more organically out of a love of the outdoors and an unyielding and determined willingness to work hard and take no shortcuts. Koller started working big jobs while most kids his age were still riding bikes and wasting time with friends. Thanks to his mother, Rachel Scott, who had high expectations and the right connections, Koller found his way into what has now become his passion. “One of my biggest inspirations in life is Brendon Burrell,” Koller said. “When I was 14 years old, we attended the same church, and my mom wanted to show me what hard work was to prepare me for my future.” “From a young age, Zach always loved being outside,” said Scott. “When he had the opportunity to work with Brendon, I thought, ‘Great! A little manual labor will help encourage him to go to college.’ But he fell in love with the land and the work.” Scott’s introduction of her son to Burrell set Koller on a path none of the three could have predicted would be so defining for his future. “Brendon managed a hunting club and gave me the opportunity to work summers and weekends. He taught me how to run farm equipment, grow food plots, and manage moist soil units. Brendon instilled a hard work ethic in me from a young age,” he said, and it’s that work ethic that has continued to lead Koller from one opportunity to the next. “Zach is such a great person with a wonderful family!” expressed Burrell. “He came to work for me pretty young. He showed up to work every time I asked. I was so lucky to have him working for me because of his strong work ethic and his willingness to help with whatever I needed… I know a lot of people, but very few I feel blessed to know. Zach, I feel blessed to know!” It was Burrell whose referral secured Koller’s second job when he was just 16 years old. “Brendon knew I always needed young men from the community to work in the heat of the summer. So, the introduction was a blessing,” said Koller’s second boss, Cole Law. “Cole taught me everything I
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LIFE & STYLE
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