Meet The Team
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President
Joseph Hakkinen, PhD
PhD. Dr. Joe has been a backyard beekeeper for about eight years. He engages with county and civic organizations to promote natural beekeeping, and he lectures to various associations such as the Texas Master Gardeners, nature societies, and local church and school groups.

Vice President
Abram Barker
Abram, a 3rd generation texas beekeeper, was mentored by his father who kept bees for several periods since the '80s, Abram learned how beekeeping has evolved since before the pest invasions. A hobbyist beekeeper and avid naturalist, he enjoys teaching and supporting others, especially on the environmental aspects of beekeeping. (He is also camera shy.)

Treasurer
Freddie Benjamin
Freddie, a retired firefighter from Rhode Island, is a passionate beekeeper in his fifth year and an advanced-level participant in the Texas Master Beekeeper Program. Dedicated to teaching and mentoring new beekeepers, Freddie finds joy in sharing his knowledge and fostering a love for beekeeping. Always eager to expand his skills, he strives to continuously learn and grow as a beekeeper.