Advancing higher education and career readiness

Sectors across the agricultural landscape need more educated and skilled workers to support our national and local food systems. 1890 land-grant universities offer different pathways to introduce students to career opportunities and prepare them for employment.

Here are a few examples of that work:

• In Tennessee, Extension leaders brought a cohort of undergraduate students to the Farm Credit Mid-America headquarters to directly engage with industry professionals, attend workshops and seminars, attend panel sessions and participate in interactive activities to build career clarity and professional confidence.
  Tennessee State University Agricultural Research and Extension Center. See full statement.

• Over 4,000 participants attended the three-day 2025 Ag Roundup in Kentucky, which showcased agricultural and STEM career opportunities, postsecondary education pathways through outreach and community engagement.
  Kentucky State University Cooperative Extension Program. Supported by 1890 Extension capacity funds. See full statement.

• Two Universities in Arkansas partnered to create the 3+1 Poultry Science Program, a dual-degree program with training in animal production, poultry management and food systems to meet the state’s workforce needs to support its large poultry and animal production industry.
  University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service, University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff. See full statement.

• Georgia Extension leaders launched an initiative for youths focused on emotional intelligence, college and career readiness and character development. Participants engaged in hands-on activities to explore entrepreneurship, emerging careers and digital literacy topics.
  Fort Valley State University Cooperative Extension Program. See full statement. 

• As high school dropout rates remain a concern in Texas, Extension professionals implemented a new relationship-based program to support middle and high school students and their families with completing high school and pursuing postsecondary education and career pathways through one-on-one coaching, financial education, career readiness programming, college tours and field trips.
  Prairie View A&M University Cooperative Extension Program. Supported by 1890 Extension capacity funds. See full statement.

Photo courtesy of Tennessee State University Agricultural Research and Extension Center.