Digital Agronomy

CIP CODE:  01.01.1201.00

Program Description:

The Digital Agronomy Program will provide students with a foundation in both conventional and regenerative agricultural practices, with a focus on 21st century technology. Students will be exposed to GIS mapping, precision agriculture, the internet of things (IoT), and the latest in crop management and irrigation practices. The three-trimester program is heavily focused on work- based learning opportunities and the completion of each trimester will result in an industry- recognized certificate. Students who complete at least two trimesters will be able to apply for their FAA Drone Pilot’s License. Students completing the entire program will receive their Digital Agronomy Assistant Diploma, and be qualified for a variety of positions in agriculture, landscape and nursery management, irrigation, as well as fields requiring drone pilot skills.

Program Outcomes:

Upon completion of the Digital Agronomy Assistant Diploma, graduates will be able to:

• Develop, implement, and recommend a range of regenerative practices and strategies, accounting for a farmer’s goals and gaps;
• Use the latest ag tech and systems (e.g., equipment, drones, sensors, monitors, IoT) - and the data that they provide - to make informed decisions and recommendations to growers; Visualize what success looks like in a farm and collect, read, analyze, and present data from multiple sources (e.g., individual observations, robust datasets) to effect the desired change in farms (e.g., developing cropping and livestock practices, building payment model to incentivize growers to adopt carbon sequestration);
• Utilize creative problem-solving skills and sound judgement to develop and implement effective solutions, even if unconventional;
• Drive a project towards success through development of work plans, time management, and collaboration with a range of individuals (e.g., clients, supervisors, team members).
• Demonstrate strong management practices required to run their own small business.

Professional Accrediting Body: State Agency/Entity Oversight: N/A

Applicable Certification/License or Industry-recognized Certificates to be Awarded:

• Certificate I:     Digital Agronomy Helper
• Certificate II:    Digital Agronomy Junior Assistant
• Certificate II(b): FAA Drone Pilot License
• Diploma: Digital Agronomy Assistant