By Andi Anderson
Eight Iowa State University students recently completed the Next Gen Innovation Impact Study, a semester-long program hosted by America’s Cultivation Corridor. Sponsored by Midwest Dairy, the initiative aimed to explore advancements in agricultural sustainability and foster innovation.
The program connected students with Iowa’s agriculture and research leaders, offering insights into cutting-edge technologies, programs, and practices driving food system resilience. Mike Naig, Iowa Secretary of Agriculture, noted the program’s importance in preparing future leaders to tackle agriculture’s sustainability challenges.
The participants, majoring in diverse fields such as Agricultural Business, Communications, and Dairy Science, researched innovations across four industry segments: animal science, plant science, bioprocessing, and consumer goods.
They conducted a campus-wide survey and created content to promote agricultural innovation, including blogs, podcasts, and LinkedIn videos highlighting technologies like Chop Local and Neatleaf.
Beyond research, students engaged in a packed schedule of panel discussions, networking events, and tours of key facilities, including Chevron Renewable Energy Group, Corteva Agriscience, and Iowa State BioCentury Research Farm.
These experiences provided hands-on learning opportunities and a deeper understanding of agricultural advancements.
Mareah Stallsmith of Midwest Dairy emphasized the program’s dual focus: fostering connections with industry leaders and encouraging students to share fresh ideas on sustainability and innovation with the broader agricultural community.
The program concluded with students presenting their findings, showcasing their ability to think strategically about agriculture’s future. As future leaders, their experiences highlight the value of collaboration and innovation in addressing global agricultural challenges.
Photo Credit: iowa-state-university
Categories: Iowa, Education