A graduate from the University of Tennessee (UTK) Entomology and Plant Pathology Department, Cody Seals, began his journey into plant pests by scouting for invasive insects and diseases among Tennessee’s nurseries and greenhouses. While pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Plant and Soil Science from Middle Tennessee State University, Cody began working for UTK’s extension program in conjunction with USDA-APHIS on TN’s CAPS program. Upon completing his bachelor’s degree, UTK offered an opportunity to attend their master’s program for entomology and plant pathology, focusing on determining the ecology of cannabis produced in the Southeast.