Bridging the Gap: Empowering Youth with Ag-Tech Skills

Ian Small, Tre Easterly, Valerie Stansly, and Sheeja George

As agriculture increasingly integrates advanced technology, the gap in skills needed to support and innovate within the industry is widening. To address this challenge, a United States Department of Agriculture funded project called Inspire-Instruct-Equip-Empower (I2E2) is working to create opportunities for youth interested in ag-tech. This initiative offers hands-on experience in developing real-world solutions using innovative technologies, equipping young people with essential skills for future careers in ag-tech.

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About the I2E2 Project

The I2E2 project, in collaboration with 4-H youth and educators, is focusing on non-formal education and experiential learning for youth aged 14 to 18. It emphasizes sustainable agricultural practices, the production of safe and nutritious food, and the protection of natural resources. By leveraging existing 4-H programs in Florida, such as 4-H clubs and the annual state-wide 4-H University held at the University of Florida campus in Gainesville, the I2E2 project is recruiting participants eager to explore the intersection of agriculture and technology.

The core mission of the I2E2 project is to Inspire, Instruct, Equip, and Empower youth to use innovative technology to advance agriculture. The project aims to:

• Inspire: Connect youth with the broader context of food, fiber, energy production, and agricultural sciences.
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• Instruct: Provide experiential learning opportunities that immerse youth in the practical application of ag-tech.
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• Equip: Teach STEM concepts related to agricultural technology and their applications.
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• Empower: Develop leadership skills in youth, enabling them to become advocates and leaders in agricultural technology.
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The I2E2 project is employing a collaborative and problem-based learning approach, focusing on whole-child development. Leveraging the extensive Florida 4-H network, the project provides robust support for youth training and development. Key activities include:

1. Immersive Experiences: Youth participate in an annual 4-H University event where they develop Internet of Things (IoT) solutions to complex agricultural challenges. The first workshops will be held this summer 4-H University – Florida 4-H – University of Florida, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences
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2. – Monthly Virtual Clubs: Participants engage with IoT4Ag professionals to tackle agricultural problems using IoT solutions through regular virtual meetings. The first virtual club is due to begin in September 2024 and we are actively recruiting participants.
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3. Capacity Building: The project aims to build capacity among youth educators and mentors, creating a comprehensive repository of resources for implementation across a broader region. Key potential beneficiaries of the project are ag teachers through a stipend supported professional development program.
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The team involved in the I2E2 project includes Dr. Ian Small, Dr. Tre Easterly, Dr. Brantlee Spakes Richter, Dr. Vivek Sharma, Dr. Sheeja George, Dr. Sebastian Galindo, Ms. Valerie Stansly, Dr. Sarah Hensley, (UF IFAS), Dr. Bill Eisenstadt (UF Engineering), and Dr. Mary McKellar (Cornell University).

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Impact on the Future Workforce

By providing youth with practical, hands-on experience in emerging agricultural technologies, the I2E2 project is cultivating the next generation of ag-tech leaders. Participants will not only gain technical skills but also learn to communicate the importance of these technologies to various stakeholders, from end-users to the general public. As these young individuals develop and share their knowledge, they will play a crucial role in advancing agricultural productivity and rural prosperity, ultimately contributing to a more sustainable and technologically adept agricultural industry.

Help connect us with youth that would be interested in participating! For more information about the project or participation in the virtual club contact any of the following:

Ian Small – ismall@ufl.edu 

Tre Easterly –  tre.easterly@ufl.edu

Valerie Stansly – valeriemendez@ufl.edu