While working at LF Bioenergy (LF), I’ve also taken on a personal challenge outside the office: Brazilian Jiu-jitsu. What started as a casual hobby quickly became a meaningful pursuit that tested my discipline, focus, and commitment. That effort culminated on February 7, when I competed in a tournament in Albany, New York, earning a gold medal in the No-Gi division and a silver medal in the Gi division.
I began training in late 2024 at a local gym with no prior martial arts experience. Initially, I approached it noncommittally—training once a week, sometimes less—simply looking for community and exercise. Last fall, that changed. I began training more consistently, and in the month leading up to the competition, I was on the mats four to five times a week in addition to regular lifting and cardio. As my LF teammates would tell you, it became an obsession for me!
I think this dedication is common to the LF team, with both career and personal pursuits. All of us have that strivers mindset, setting ambitious targets, eager to reach a goal, putting in the time and work to reach it. For me, that effort shows up in grappling. The grit one must have to step out onto the mats is hardly any different than that which one must have to perform a recital, run a marathon, or – in LF’s case – carve out a name for itself in the intersection between the energy and farming industries.
Although my time in Brazilian Jiu-jitsu has been relatively short, it has reinforced lessons that carry directly into my professional life: humility, persistence, resilience, and the value of camaraderie. I would encourage anyone who’s curious to give it a chance!
Progress—whether on the mat or at work—comes from steady effort and support from the people around you. I’m grateful to be part of a team that values growth, both professionally and personally.
Regards,
David Schummer
Operations Engineer
724.841.9834
[email protected]
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