Supporting agricultural workforce development across Michigan
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EmailThe MSU Institute of Agricultural Technology supports the state’s food and agriculture needs for a qualified workforce by offering relevant specialized training on campus and across the state by partnering with 10 community colleges.
The MSU Institute of Agricultural Technology supports the state’s food and agriculture needs for a qualified workforce by offering relevant specialized training on campus and across the state by partnering with 10 community colleges.
Roughly 475 students are enrolled in the IAT program (up 11 percent from the past year). Graduates are often employed right in their communities. The average annual salary is between $42,000 and $58,000 for someone working in the fruit and vegetable, dairy and meat processing industries.
“Workforce shortages limit the agriculture industry’s growth,” said Ron Hendrick, dean of the Michigan State University College of Agriculture and Natural Resources. “Job opportunities in production, processing, distribution and food safety are available in Michigan. Our job is to train students, whether here or closer to home, to fill these jobs.”
This year, IAT celebrates 125 years of delivering innovative, educational programs in agricultural, environmental and applied technologies.
- 175 students graduated in March 2018 helping support Michigan’s $100 billion food and agriculture industry and develop skills on the latest equipment and technology.
- Steve Miller, assistant professor in the Department of Agricultural, Food and Resource Economics, estimated an additional 524 workers entered the workforce through IAT certificate programs, community college associate’s degrees and bachelor’s degree programs, having a $148 million effect on the state’s economy.
