Wisconsin’s dairy industry generates $52.8 billion in annual economic impact and supports more than 120,000 jobs. To meet the demand for skilled workers, educational institutions like Northeast Wisconsin Technical College (NWTC) are offering post-secondary education in dairy science.
Post-Secondary Education Options
NWTC’s Dairy Science Management Program is one of the only dairy-specific technical college programs in the country. Students can pursue either a one-year technical diploma in Dairy Science or a two-year associate degree in Dairy Science Management.
Dr. Wendy Vandenboom, Veterinarian and Dairy Science Instructor at NWTC, shared insights on student pathways and workforce opportunities in this vital sector. Vandenboom emphasized that thinking of a “stereotypical” Dairy Science student or career may be based on outdated notions.
Preparing Wisconsin’s Youth for Careers in Dairy & Agriculture
Students pursuing agricultural programs are increasingly coming from non-farming backgrounds, often discovering their interest through extended family connections, extracurricular activities, or high school coursework. Families can encourage youth to see a future in agricultural and dairy industry careers by setting aside dedicated funds for their children’s post-secondary education and career training.
The Wisconsin 529 College Savings Program, also known as Edvest 529, provides families a triple tax-advantaged way to save and pay for future education expenses. Contributions to an Edvest 529 account are made with after-tax dollars, but account earnings are free from federal and state taxes when used to pay for qualified higher education expenses.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
