2025 20 Under 40 Farmer
About
Jake Calhoon of Goreville, Illinois, is a fifth-generation farmer raising corn, soybeans, milo, wheat, hay, and cattle on land his family has worked since 1850. Influenced by his father and grandfather, Jake learned early the value of living within his means and stewarding the farm for future generations. A former FFA chapter president, he gained leadership experience through state and national conventions, including guiding his chapter in an award-winning tractor restoration project. Today, Jake is committed to preserving agriculture in a region where family farms are disappearing, and land is increasingly converted to hunting ground. He believes in showing the next generation that farming remains vital to Illinois communities and that success comes from hard work, resilience, and careful decision making. Despite challenges, Jake remains hopeful for the future and emphasizes that every season brings new lessons and opportunities to grow.