Dr. Andrew Walker, Louise Rossi Endowed Chair and professor in 
Viticulture and Enology, is without a doubt one of the most respected 
geneticists in the nation. He has made significant impacts in the 
industry, developing new grape varieties resistant to Pierce disease, 
which costs California grape growers $100 million a year, and mentoring a
 large number of individuals from industry and academia. In an exclusive
 interview, Dr. Walker gave a brief overview of his career, 
discussing grape breeding, changes in technology and guidance on moving 
forward. He was joined by a few of his former colleagues
 and students, who reflected on their experiences working with him 
and how he has impacted their careers.