Austin County 4-H is proud to spotlight Layne Malinowski, a dedicated member of the Welcome 4-H Club and the newly elected 2025–2026 Austin County 4-H Council 1st Vice President.
With 10 years of experience in 4-H, Layne has grown into a strong and dependable leader who is passionate about helping younger members succeed while continuing to build his own leadership skills. His commitment to service, responsibility, and community involvement reflects the values that make Austin County 4-H an important part of youth development across Austin County.
One of Layne’s favorite and most rewarding 4-H projects is Agricultural Mechanics, a program that allows students to develop hands-on skills while working on real-world builds. Over the years, he has built many unique projects, some alongside his twin brother, and enjoys both the hands-on building process and the opportunity to present the finished project to judges.
Agricultural Mechanics allows 4-H members to design, create, and explain their work, giving students valuable real-world skills in problem-solving, public speaking, and project management. For Layne, Agricultural Mechanics has become one of the most exciting and meaningful parts of his 4-H journey.
As Austin County 4-H Council 1st Vice President, Layne’s goal this year is to teach club officers proper parliamentary procedure and help strengthen leadership within local 4-H clubs. He believes being a 4-H leader gives him the opportunity to mentor younger members while helping guide important decisions that shape the future of the Austin County 4-H program.
He says the leadership role he is most proud of is the very one he now holds—serving as 1st Vice President on the Austin County 4-H Council.
One of Layne’s favorite 4-H memories was traveling to the State Livestock Quiz Bowl contest and winning, an experience that highlights both teamwork and knowledge. He also values the many community service projects he has participated in over the years, especially helping package blessing boxes for women battling breast cancer.
These experiences have helped shape his understanding of service, leadership, and the importance of giving back to the community.
Layne says one of the most important life skills he has learned through 4-H is responsibility. His animal projects taught him the importance of daily care, consistency, and accountability—lessons that extend far beyond agriculture and into everyday life.
After graduating high school, Layne plans to attend college and pursue a career in landscape architecture, combining creativity with practical skills to build a strong future career path.
Austin County 4-H continues to spotlight young leaders like Layne Malinowski who are making a difference through leadership, service, and dedication. His story highlights how the Austin County 4-H program helps prepare youth for success both inside and outside the classroom.
The Austin County 4-H program will continue recognizing County Council officers throughout the year as they inspire the next generation of leaders across Austin County and beyond.
