Hands-on career exploration connects students to the science and innovation driving modern agriculture
STAPLES, Minn. (November 4, 2025) – Students from Northdale Middle School, Anoka High School, and Brooklyn Center High School spent the day at the Central Lakes College (CLC) Ag & Energy Center in Staples on November 4, discovering how technology, automation, and innovation are transforming the future of farming in Minnesota.
The visit was part of the Northwest Suburban Integration School District (NWSISD) agriculture career exploration program, hosted in partnership with AgCentric – The Northern Agricultural Center of Excellence. The experience introduced Twin Cities students to the wide variety of career paths available in agriculture, food, and natural resources (AFNR) — from robotics and data science to agronomy and environmental technology.
Hands-On Learning in Action
Led by Judy Barka, Assistant Director of AgCentric, the morning featured four interactive rotations across the CLC Ag & Energy Center, where students learned through real-world applications of agricultural technology.
At the Ride & Drive station, every student had the opportunity to ride in one of the three main pieces of harvest equipment. Farm Manager Todd Pollema operated the combine, Farm Technician Bruce Berg managed the grain cart, and Farm Technician Brayden Ehnert handled the tillage tractor. Students experienced how precision steering, automation, and teamwork all come together in the field — from harvesting corn to managing soil for the next planting season.
The Technology in Agriculture rotation demonstrated how digital platforms, GPS systems, and sensors provide real-time field data that help producers make informed decisions about irrigation, inputs, and efficiency.
In the Robotics in Agriculture session, Ag & Energy Director Cory Detloff introduced students to the growing role of robotics and automation in farm operations. They explored how programmable machines and AI-driven technologies are changing the way farmers monitor crops and collect data.
Finally, at the Refractometers Are What? station, Judy Barka guided students through hands-on testing of plant samples using refractometers — simple instruments that measure sugar content to assess crop health and performance. Students learned how a tool used by farmers, food scientists, and researchers connects biological science to everyday farm decisions.
“These experiences show students that agriculture is powered by technology and problem-solving,” said Barka. “It’s about innovation, precision, and sustainability — and it opens doors to countless career opportunities.”
After the rotations, students gathered for a group photo and lunch before traveling to their afternoon destination.
Connecting Agriculture and Culture
In the afternoon, the group visited Frog Tree Farm North of Verndale — one of Minnesota’s oldest Black-owned multigenerational farms. Stewards Peace Mitchell and Michael Birchard welcomed students for a storytelling walk and reflection activities centered on community, stewardship, and the legacy of Black farmers in Minnesota’s agricultural history.
The visit complemented the morning’s technology-focused learning with meaningful cultural and historical perspectives.
Building Pathways for the Future
The partnership between AgCentric, Central Lakes College, and NWSISD continues to expand access to agricultural education for students across the state.
“This collaboration helps students see agriculture as a modern, innovative, and vital industry,” said Barka. “By connecting technology and culture, we’re showing that agriculture isn’t just about growing crops — it’s about shaping the future.”
Through experiences like these, AgCentric and its partners are helping prepare the next generation of agricultural leaders to meet Minnesota’s evolving workforce needs.
){kind=link}
You must be logged in to post a comment.