Ag-Tech Career Exploration (ACE) | Jan - July 2025

Ag-tech is particularly significant in Arkansas, where agriculture is the largest industry. The use of advanced technologies can optimize crops, reduce environmental impact, and support economic growth. This program provides youth exposure to ag-tech career opportunities to ensure use and future technological advancements.

The seven-month University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture (UADA) Ag-Tech Career Exploration (ACE) program introduces high school students to agricultural technology career opportunities. The participating 20 students each year will explore, engage in, and pursue careers that utilize agricultural technology. Through tours both in state and abroad, hands on experiences, and job shadowing, participants will be exposed to the benefits of agricultural technology.

Specific technologies that will be addressed include food genetics, robotics, precision agriculture, sensors, drones, RFID technology, and data analysis. This comprehensive program will provide students with a strong foundation in STEM subjects, hands-on experiences, and valuable skills to excel in agriculture-based STEM careers. 

High school students (ages 16-19) interested in learning more about careers in ag technology are encouraged to apply. Students must be 16 by January 1 in the year of the program to be eligible. 

Session 1: Orientation, Leadership, and Communication—Familiarize students with the Division of Agriculture, University research environments, agricultural technology.

• Explore the research, extension, and ag technology industries.
• Build team and communication skills.
• Cultivate professional leadership skills.
• Conduct self-assessment (True Colors).

Session 2: Technology in Animal Science and Forestry—Southwest Research and Extension Center

• Artificial insemination, precision livestock farming, RFID technology, GPS tracking, biometric sensors, data analytics, technology used in forestry

Session 3: Food Science and Robotics—Northwest Arkansas-Milo J. Schult Agricultural Research and Extension Center

• Food genetics to enhance crop traits and robotics in agriculture.

Session 4: Precision Ag, Sensors, and Data Use—Northeast Rice Research and Extension Center

• GPS, sensors, and data analytics to precisely manage resources such as water, fertilizers, and pesticides.

Session 5: Online seminars—4-Hers will participate in online seminars to enhance ACE experience. 

• Parental orientation, cultural awareness, and presentation preparation and potential topics. 

Session 6: International Study Tour—Experiencing a different culture broadens a young person's understanding of the world and helps them appreciate diverse perspectives. International locations often have access to more advanced and innovative agricultural technologies. By being exposed to these technologies, young individuals can learn about cutting-edge practices and applications. 

Note: Participation in the International Study Tour is not required to graduate from ACE.

Session 7: Final Presentation/Independent Study— Participants will orally present their projects at the final meeting and graduation event.

Who can apply?
High school students or recent graduates (ages 16-19) who are citizens or permanent residents of the U.S. are eligible to apply. Priority will be given to students from traditionally underserved minorities, future first-generation college students, and students from schools with limited opportunities.

Application Instructions

Complete online application. (Must be logged into ZSuite to go to the registration page.)

Application Link

Applications include a resume, cover letter (optional), short essays, and interview. Those selected will be expected to attend all face-to-face sessions in the ACE program, Zoom trainings, and complete an individual project. 

Application Deadline
Applications will are now closed. 

Interviews

If selected for an interview, 15-minute interviews will be held via Zoom.

Selected participants are expected to attend all seminars.

• There are no excused absences.
• If a participant misses an in-state session, s/he may not be eligible to travel on the international study tour.
• Passports will be required for the international study tour. Passports cannot expire within six months of the travel date. Let us know if you need any assistance with this.

ACE Program Service-Learning Opportunities

In the Arkansas 4-H ACE Program, we recognize that sometimes members may miss mandatory meetings. To ensure continued growth and engagement, service-learning activities can be used as a substitute for missed meetings. These activities must align with the program’s focus on agriculture, technology, and career exploration, allowing members to develop valuable skills while making a positive impact in their communities.

Eligible activities include organizing or participating in agricultural education projects, volunteering at local farms or events, creating content about ag-tech careers, or engaging in sustainability initiatives. Each activity must involve at least 2-3 hours of participation and be pre-approved by the program coordinator. After completing an activity, members are required to submit documentation, including a summary and verification of participation, within two weeks.

This opportunity provides a flexible way for members to continue building their knowledge and contributing to the community, while supplementing missed meetings with hands-on experience in the fields of agriculture and technology.