KCEDC hosts 2023 Ag Career Days

For the Star-News

KEWAUNEE COUNTY–Ag Career Days, hosted by Pagel’s Ponderosa, N4893 Cty C, Kewaunee, brought together farmers, agribusinesses and 954 middle school students to explore new opportunities in the ag industry. Submitted photo[/caption], N4893 Cty C, Kewaunee, brought together farmers, agribusinesses and 954 middle school students to explore new opportunities in the ag industry on April 18 and 19.

With a range of presentations and exhibits, students were able to learn about the latest innovations in agriculture, as well as gain valuable insights into the many career paths available in the industry.

The farm career-exploration experience welcomed seventh- and eighth-grade students from five northeast Wisconsin school districts — Algoma, Denmark, Kewaunee, Luxemburg-Casco and Southern Door — along with parochial and home-schooled students.

The students rotated through eight stations, each having a different presenter who works in some aspect of the agriculture industry, including agronomy, cropping, horticulture, animals, animal nutrition, milk testing, cheese making, agriculture support services, the business of agriculture, and technology.

They received hands-on opportunities to learn more about the various aspects of agriculture, allowing them to tailor their high-school coursework towards a planned career path.

According to the KCEDC, agriculture has an economic impact in Kewaunee County totaling more than $80 million, including $65 million from the dairy industry.

Approximately 2,300 jobs in Kewaunee County are tied directly to agriculture.

KCEDC launched Ag Career Days in 2012 as a way for students to identify how their interests could transfer to a potential career in the agriculture industry.

Established as a biennial event, it subsequently was held in 2014, 2016 and 2018.

It has not taken place since 2018.