Research interests primarily focus on herbicide applications in forestland to promote oak regeneration and control non-native, invasive plant species. Herbicide applications within southern pine systems has also been investiaged to a lesser extent. Future involvement in agroforestry systems is in the initial stages. Stephen earned an M.S. degree at Mississippi State University under the advisement of Dr. Andrew Ezell and a PhD. at the University of Tennessee under the advisement of Dr. Wayne Clatterbuck. Stephen served as an extension specialist/assistant professor at Clemson University (2019-2023) and is currently serving the same role at the University of Tennessee - Knoxville.