Iowa 4-H Calls on Agricultural Employers to Shape Youth Workforce Readiness

By Andi Anderson

Iowa 4-H, in collaboration with state 4-H programs from Missouri, Purdue, Nebraska, Kansas State, Ohio State, and Wisconsin, has secured a multi-year National Institute of Food and Agriculture grant for the "Youth Innovators Empowering Agriculture across America" project. This initiative aims to deepen understanding and engagement in career and employment pathways within agriculture and food systems, fostering youth workforce readiness and skill development.

As part of this effort, Iowa 4-H invites agricultural employers across the state to participate in an online survey, a crucial step in assessing career pathway awareness and enhancing youth knowledge of agricultural careers. Employers engaged in various aspects of agriculture, including production, manufacturing, and related services, are encouraged to contribute insights.

The survey focuses on key topics such as adopting technology and automation, workforce skills and training needs, recruitment and retention strategies, and insights into vacancies and job growth. Mitchell Hoyer, Interim Iowa 4-H Program Leader, emphasizes the importance of the survey, stating, "The information gathered will enhance 4-H Youth Development initiatives to promote agricultural careers and help prepare youth for success in the industry."

The 10-minute survey is open for completion by agricultural employers until the end of March. Individuals aged 18 or above, knowledgeable about their workforce, are encouraged to participate anonymously. Companies can have more than one employee participate, with the option for follow-up phone interviews. Survey results will be shared with respondents upon completion of the study.

Hoyer urges widespread participation, emphasizing the regional impact of the study in enhancing awareness of career opportunities for Iowa's youth in agriculture and food systems.

For questions or additional information, contact Cayla Taylor, Senior 4-H Program Manager, at cayla@iastate.edu.

This initiative is funded through the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture's Youth Innovators Empowering Agriculture across America program, part of the Agriculture and Food Research Initiative, supporting priorities such as climate-smart agriculture, racial justice, and workforce development.

Photo Credit: 4h