WOOSTER – Thirteen students graduated after a week-long immersion into the career opportunities Ohio agriculture has to offer at a recent Ohio Farm Bureau ExploreAg camp.
During the camp, held at Ohio State ATI in Wooster, teens learned about agriculture and related STEM fields from industry experts, scientists and educators.
“These camps truly highlight the vast array of possibilities for a meaningful career in Ohio’s farm and food industries for students who may have never considered seeking a role in these fields,” said Katie Share, ExploreAg and youth development specialist with Ohio Farm Bureau.
“As the need for a strong next generation of workforce continues to grow, agriculture is teeming with opportunities in all aspects of food production, from agronomy to technology, and we are excited to share many of these opportunities with ExploreAg participants.”
Research shows that the 10-year need for workers in agribusiness occupations totals nearly 470,000. More than 90,000 of this need is in farming occupations, including agricultural managers.
In addition to classroom experience, students participated in field experiences that highlight cutting-edge research and were introduced to industry partners, providing scholars with a glimpse of innovative careers in related fields.
Some of the highlights of the camp included seeing a drone demonstration from Ruck Ag Services at the Esselburn farm, hearing about the customer-first approach taken by Boyert’s Greenhouse, and interacting with two lawyers from Wright & Moore as students heard about the need for agricultural lawyers in rural communities.
Students had an opportunity to engage in hands-on activities including a balance sheet activity with AgCredit showcasing the importance of off-setting liabilities with assets, driving some of the tractors and operating the equipment used in sports turfgrass management, and experiencing the difference between various lavender plants at Lavender Trails.
Participants were eager to build each other up and encourage each other throughout the week.
To learn more about these free, one-of-a-kind science camps for teens as well as upcoming dates, visit ExploreAg.org.
Parents and students can find more information by contacting info@exploreag.org.
Ohio Farm Bureau’s mission is working together for Ohio farmers to advance agriculture and strengthen our communities. Learn more at ohiofarmbureau.org.