Agribusiness Sector
With a long tradition of agriculture throughout its region, our community offers a unique opportunity to access a pipeline of qualified workers who have a variety of levels of expertise in all aspects of agriculture industry. Beginning as early as middle school, students are able to take exploratory classes focused on animal and plant science. In secondary school, students dive more deeply into specific areas of focus, including agriculture production, farm and business management, turf grass management, horticulture, and small engine maintenance. Addition, they learn about the latest technology applicable to the agricultural industry.
The Region is also located within a two-hour drive of ten colleges and universities offering agricultural programs with disciplines ranging from Agricultural Business Operations to Crop Production to Food Science. Within this radius are three land-grant universities - Virginia Tech, North Carolina A&T State University, and North Carolina State University.
Located in the Region are two organizations who have emphasize focus on agriculture. The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research conducts research on value-added and precision agriculture, and the Olde Dominion Agricultural Complex provides a venue and supports events that educate and motivate individuals involved in agricultural pursuits.