​Emma Menden, a recent graduate of the University of Arizona's Biosystems Engineering program, discusses her master's thesis on Fusarium wilt in lettuce cultivars. She shares her journey from civil engineering to controlled environment agriculture (CEA), emphasizing her interests in vertical farming, global food systems, and science communication. Emma highlights the importance of research in combating plant diseases and improving crop resilience. Her insights shed light on the challenges and opportunities within CEA, particularly in addressing food accessibility and sustainability. The conversation underscores the role of interdisciplinary approaches in advancing agricultural practices.