Wesley Autio

Wesley Autio is a Professor at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, affiliated with the Stockbridge School of Agriculture. He has been a key figure in the university's agricultural programs since 1985 and previously served as the Director of the Stockbridge School of Agriculture from 2012 to 2021, where he enhanced its educational, research, and outreach missions. He also led the UMass Fruit Program until recently.

Educational Background:

• Ph.D. in Plant & Soil Sciences, University of Massachusetts, 1985
• M.S. in Plant & Soil Sciences, University of Massachusetts, 1982
• B.S. in Horticulture, Virginia Polytechnic Institute & State University (summa cum laude), 1979
• University of Maine, Orono, 1975–1977
• Lake Region High School, Naples, Maine (valedictorian), 1975

Dr. Autio's research is centered on pomology, particularly the cultivation and management of apple and peach trees. His work includes evaluating rootstocks, controlling tree growth through mechanical and hormonal methods, and chemical thinning of peaches to optimize yield and quality. His deep expertise in experimental design and statistical analysis makes him a valuable collaborator on numerous research projects and a frequent member of graduate committees, where he provides methodological guidance.

He teaches undergraduate courses in fruit crop pruning and graduate-level courses in statistical analysis. Though no specific publications are listed, his scholarly activity appears focused on applied horticultural science with strong extension and practical farming applications.

• Former Director, Stockbridge School of Agriculture (2012–2021)
• Former Fruit Program Leader, UMass

Dr. Autio has played a significant role in mentoring graduate students through committee service and research collaboration, though specific advisees are not named. He has not received any publicly listed scientific awards in the provided text. He is actively involved in research and extension, working closely with tree-fruit farmers and stakeholders in the agricultural community.

His work is carried out through the Stockbridge School of Agriculture, a unit dedicated to sustainable agriculture and environmental stewardship, where he contributes to both academic and outreach missions.