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Students choose two of four specialized pathways to customize their degree:Ìý

• AgriBusiness Management - Essential business and marketing skills for agricultural operations, including sales, customer service, and management strategiesÌý
• AgriScience - Soil science, plant biology, and sustainable agricultural practices with a strong scientific foundationÌý
• AgTech - Agricultural technology, including computer science, geospatial technologies, and applied trades such as welding and electronicsÌý
• Wine and Viticulture Foundations - Winemaking, vineyard management, and wine hospitality, including cooperative field experiences

Southwest Michigan is one of the most agriculturally diverse regions in the country, and workforce demand reflects that:Ìý

• Michigan ranks among the top states nationally for agricultural output, producing more than 300 commodities including fruit, vegetables, grains, dairy, and wine grapes.Ìý
• The agriculture industry faces significant workforce shortages in skilled technical roles, agribusiness management, and precision agriculture technology.Ìý
• Wine and viticulture in Southwest Michigan is a growing sector, with Berrien County ranked among the top wine-producing counties in the Midwest.Ìý
• The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects steady and growing demand for agricultural workers, managers, and technicians across all key specializations.Ìý
• National and state reports consistently identify precision agriculture and agri-technology as among the fastest-growing areas of workforce need.Ìý

Modern agriculture is a diverse, technology-driven industry that spans food production, land management, data analysis, business operations, and sustainability. Agricultural professionals work across:Ìý

• Farm and crop management -Ìýoverseeing planting, harvesting, soil health, and production systemsÌý
• Agribusiness operations -Ìýmanaging supply chains, sales, marketing, and customer relationshipsÌý
• Agricultural technology -Ìýdeploying precision farming tools, GPS and drone systems, and automated equipmentÌý
• Viticulture and winemaking -Ìýcultivating grapevines, managing vineyards, and producing wine for Michigan's thriving wine industryÌý
• Agricultural education and consulting -Ìýadvising farmers, businesses, and organizations on best practices and innovationÌý