ACTE has updated its Sector Sheet on CTE’s role in developing the workforce in the Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources Career Cluster® with the latest on occupational demand, talent shortages and exemplary programs.
The Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources Career Cluster continuously evolves in response to changes in food consumption patterns, environmental and weather conditions, and agricultural production techniques. STEM-focused agriculture occupations are projected to grow at a pace well above average, and increases are also predicted in e-commerce, marketing and agriscience education. Many of these high-growth jobs take place in laboratories and offices, rather than in the open air. In addition, earnings are strong for jobs in natural resources management and forestry.
CTE programs in this sector are evolving, too. At Tulare Joint Union High School District Farm in California, students can work on the school dairy, supported by partner Land O’Lakes, or on an almost 100-acre farm and learning lab. Off site, they participate in a 40-hour-long Supervised Agricultural Experience. The entire 2014-15 class graduated, with 94 percent headed to postsecondary education.
On the postsecondary level, Horry Georgetown Technical College in Conway, South Carolina, offers the only associate degree program in golf and sports turf management in the state. Students participate in internships and assist at golf tournaments such as the PGA Championship. All 2014-15 graduates were continuing their education or had relevant jobs within a year of graduation.
ACTE’s Sector Sheet series is generously supported by Pearson.
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