Pivot Bio Launches 'Pivotal People' Series to Honor Real Farm Heroes
Agtech leader Pivot Bio debuts a new storytelling series spotlighting everyday farmers whose courage, resilience, and innovation are redefining American agriculture-starting with the inspiring journey of Chris and Coy Kolkhorst of Texas.
In a heartfelt move to celebrate the human side of agriculture, Pivot Bio announced the launch of "Pivotal People - Inspired by Real Farm Heroes," a storytelling initiative that pays tribute to farmers whose perseverance and passion are changing the way America farms. The series begins with the story of Chris Kolkhorst and his 17-year-old son Coy, a Texas duo whose journey from hardship to harvest is a testament to grit, family, and the power of agricultural innovation.
Chris, once a college baseball star at Rice University and a former San Diego Padres draft pick, walked away from a promising sports career to build a life rooted in purpose. Years later, that purpose deepened when his son Coy was born prematurely at just 23 weeks. Facing steep odds, Coy became the center of Chris's world-and the heart of their shared venture into farming.
Their first season was humbling. After planting corn, they harvested only four ears. But instead of quitting, they turned to Pivot Bio. The company donated product and provided technical support, helping the Kolkhorsts transform their struggling farm into a thriving operation. Their resilience paid off-the following season, their yields improved dramatically, and so did their bond.
"Chris and Coy's story embodies everything 'Pivotal People' stands for," said Chris Abbott, CEO of Pivot Bio. "Behind every acre is a story of grit, family, and belief in what's possible. These are the real heroes of agriculture."
Today, Coy-who navigates dyslexia and ADHD with unwavering determination-works side by side with his dad, turning challenges into growth. "Baseball taught me discipline, but farming with Coy gave me perspective," said Chris. "He is my hero."
To honor their journey, Pivot Bio made a surprise donation to the Gritmen Foundation, a nonprofit launched by the Kolkhorsts to support others facing adversity. The gesture underscores Pivot Bio's commitment not just to agronomic solutions, but to the families and communities behind the rows of corn and wheat.
"Pivotal People" will continue to spotlight inspiring farmers nationwide, bringing forward the often-overlooked personal stories that define rural America. With each story, the series aims to highlight how science, community, and perseverance work together to grow not just food-but hope.