Agricultural Education is a program for high school and middle school students interested in pursuing careers in natural resources, environmental, and agricultural fields. Hundreds of jobs are available to students who complete this program. Each local program is designed and conducted to meet specific regional needs identified by its advisory committee and the school administration. These programs include training for careers in agricultural production, processing, mechanization/engineering, communication/education, science, marketing/sales, horticulture, forestry, research, and agribusiness.
The agricultural education program involves the following components: rigorous classroom instruction (contextual learning), hands-on experience and career exploration (work-based learning), and the FFA (connecting activity). Programs are designed to prepare students to fill community needs, enter post-secondary agricultural programs, and develop their personal skills.
Over 20% percent of America's workforce is employed in some phase of the agricultural industry. Of the 20% involved in agriculture, only 8% are producers, while 30% are engaged in marketing, merchandising, and sales. Twenty-nine percent are scientists, engineers, and related professionals. With the growing global population, greater demands will be placed on the food and fiber industry. Career opportunities are abundant for agricultural education students.
The South Carolina FFA Association is affiliated with the National FFA Organization, the agricultural education student organization. This organization is designed to provide premier leadership, career success, and personal growth. FFA activities are linked to a high-quality agrarian education curriculum. Career development events, awards programs, community service projects, and leadership activities strengthen instruction by providing a real-world context for learning. The knowledge and skills students develop through the FFA prepare them for life and future careers.
The South Carolina Farmer and Agribusiness Association is an organization of adults in the local community who are involved in agriculture. Chapter activities are designed to provide continuing education, leadership development, and community service. Events such as state conventions, contests and awards, and agricultural tours enhance the value of the local agricultural continuing education component. The state association is affiliated with the National Young Farmer Education Association.
Contact Information
State Director
Troy Helms
State Director
900 Clemson Road
Columbia, SC 29229
Phone: 803-320-1064
E-mail:
rthelms@clemson.edu
Administrative Assistant
Jennifer Lyda
P.O. Box 1746
Clemson, SC 29633
Phone: 864-656-8668
Email:
jrlyda@clemson.edu
SC Agricultural Education Email:
scaged@clemson.edu
SC Agricultural Education Website:
scaged@clemson.org
Associate Directors of Instruction
SC FFA Association
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Jillian Lash
Executive Director
P.O. Box 1746
Clemson, SC 29633
Cell: 803-236-5542
Email: jelash@g.clemson.edu
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Jason Gore
Program Assistant
P.O. Box 1746
Clemson, SC 29633
Office: 803-773-5561
Cell: 843-333-9712
Fax: 803-773-0070
Email: jdgore@clemson.edu |
SC FFA Center
Ann Mayfield, Program Director
1069 FFA Circle Drive
North Myrtle Beach, SC 29582
Office: 843-251-1636
Email:
scffacenter@gmail.com
Agriculture Course Standards - External Resources
