The National Association of State Departments of Agriculture plans to support more funding for apprenticeships, agricultural education and workforce development programs as one of its top priorities following a policy review at the group's recent annual meeting.
The group approved two new policies on the subject last week. Wyoming Ag Director Doug Miyamoto, who wrapped up his term as NASDA's president at the meeting, said the ag industry is facing “a tremendous need for workers with training specializing in agricultural fields.”
“NASDA believes that investment in certificate programs, micro-credentials and apprenticeships can fast-track new graduates and those looking to switch careers into the agricultural industry while ensuring they have the knowledge and skills necessary to continue advancing the industry,” Miyamoto said in a NASDA release.
The organization is specifically calling for USDA to “develop agricultural literacy resources for guidance counselors and other school professionals” so students of all age groups are exposed to agricultural career options.
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Miyamoto also stressed the importance of engaging with young learners to showcase the rewards of agricultural work, ultimately contributing to the growth of a “skilled and stable agricultural workforce.” He emphasized that “investing in our agricultural workforce is investing in the resilience of the agriculture industry.”
In alignment with these objectives, the NASDA Foundation is collaborating with several external partners to pursue efforts through the Ag and Food Research Initiative grants from USDA's National Institute of Food and Agriculture. Those grants aim to fund educational opportunities through community colleges, extension experiences for undergraduate students, and other avenues to promote agricultural literacy and professional development.
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