In 1984, Daniel started working for ISU Extension as a video production assistant. As a broadcast journalism student, he also worked part-time at WOI-TV as a weekend reporter.  

In 1988, he was hired as the Extension broadcast materials specialist, in charge of video duplication, the video stock footage library and occasional video production.

In 1994, he graduated from Iowa State with a Master of Science in Journalism and a year later, his position was reclassified to video producer.

In 2005, Daniel graduated from the Experience Leadership, a two-year program designed by ISU Extension to improve personal leadership skills and develop team working skills.