2016-10-7: USDA Announces Increased Support to Expand and Diversify the U.S. Agriculture Workforce

Friday, October 7th 2016

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today announced increased federal and private-sector support to expand and diversify the U.S. agricultural workforce by increasing opportunities in education, research and outreach. The announcement is part of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP) and Rural Council initiative, America the Bountiful, a collaboration with federal agencies and private-sector stakeholders to meet the growing demand for a skilled, diverse workforce in the rapidly evolving agricultural landscape.  OSTP convened scientists, educators, advocates and industry representatives to examine future workforce and food security challenges. Two fundamental goals have emerged: increase the number and diversity of skilled agricultural workers at all levels of education and expand research and training opportunities in areas that are experiencing particularly serious workforce shortages and are central to meeting future food needs. During an event at USDA headquarters today, OSTP used the America the Bountiful Fact Sheet to outline financial and other assistance by USDA, the National Science Foundation, and the National Science and Technology Council to support these goals. During the event, USDA Under Secretary for Research, Education, and Economics Catherine Woteki also announced an investment of $382,650 in four universities through NIFA's Women and Minorities in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics Fields Program (WAMS) from FY2016 funds. These projects help increase the number and diversity of students entering food and agriculture-related STEM disciplines that help feed the world and contribute to the economic viability of rural communities.