After receiving a degree in production horticulture from the University of Wisconsin, Kim Flottum began a career in honey bee pollination research with the USDA and a life-long interest in the multifaceted hobby and business of beekeeping. He next used his acquired skills to raise apples and vegetables in Connecticut, before moving to Medina, Ohio, in 1986 to become editor of the 132-year-old magazine, Bee Culture.