Agri-Tech
Agriculture is the nation’s largest employer with more than 23 million jobs involved in some facet of American Agriculture. As a student in the Agriscience and Natural Resources programs at the LISD Center for a Sustainable Future (CSF), you will learn in a state-of-the-art center. The new facility, which features environmental learning labs, has been recognized as a “Green Ribbon School” by the US Department of Education.
Program Description
The Agri-Tech program offers hands-on curriculum with a science-based foundation. The program is designed for students to develop skills and explore opportunities within the agriculture industry. Students will acquire basic skills and knowledge working inside the CSF classroom and outside in the barn and fields on the CSF campus. The program studies modern soil, crop, plant, animal, and veterinary sciences. Students learn to raise livestock and operate farm machinery. They will also acquire a better understanding of the advantages and disadvantages of sustainable agriculture practices.
Participation in FFA leadership training is an essential part of the program. Students who take this program have the option to dual-enroll in Michigan State University classes.
To Be Successful
Successful students in this program are self-motivated, enjoy working outdoors with plants and animals, and may have an interest in science and environmental issues. Good reading and math skills and the ability to learn scientific research skills is helpful.
Student Organization
FFA
Program Success Indicators
Academic
- Complete assigned work in a timely manner, meet deadlines, and prioritize tasks
- Add, subtract, multiply, and divide fractions and whole numbers
- Calculate percentages
- Enjoy science
- Willingness to engage in public speaking
Interpersonal
- Good work ethic and good attendance
- Positive attitude and interest in program
- Follow safety protocols
- Good organizational skills and time management
- Work independently or in a group
- Work safely around equipment
- Demonstrate courtesy and politeness with co-workers
- Follow verbal and written instructions and procedures
Program Specific
- Compete in FFA (student organization) competitions
- Enjoy hands-on work
- Work in adverse weather conditions
- Work in and around animal fecal matter/mud/compost
- Perform basic veterinary procedures on livestock
- Show interest in agriculture/plant/animal science
- Operate agriculture equipment
Related Careers
Note: Additional education may be required.
- Ag Mechanics
- Agriculture/Natural Resources
- Scientist
- Veterinary Medicine
- Environmental Engineer
- Animal Science
- Organic Farmer
- Forestry Technician
- Park Ranger/DNR
- Farming
- Entrepreneur/Business Owner
- Crop/Soil Science
- Food Compliance Official
- Agribusiness Management
High School Credit*
*The LISD TECH Center recommends the academic credit listed. Only your local high school can award academic credit. See your counselor for more information.
- 1.0 4th Math
- 1.0 2nd Science (Chemistry, Physics, Anatomy, Agriscience)
- 1.0 3rd Science (in lieu of)
- 1.0 World Languages (in lieu of)
- 1.0 Visual, Performing, & Applied Arts
- 1.0 Online Learning Experience
College Credit Opportunities*
*College credit can only be awarded by the college or university. Certain requirements must be met outside of completing the program.
- Baker College
- Davenport University
- Michigan State University
- Siena Heights University
Certification Opportunities
- Bobcat - skid steer/loader certification
- Youth Quality Care of Animals
- STIHL chainsaw safety
- Redbrand Fence 101
- BASF - plant science certification
- EETC - small engine certification
- National College Learning Center Association (NCLCA) - principles of livestock
selection & evaluation certification - National Horse Judging Team Coaches' Association (NHJTCA) - equine management & evaluation certification
- Elanco
- Animal science certification
- Vet science certification
Instructor
Matt Hensley, a former Agri-Tech student and Michigan State University graduate, currently co-owns/operates a sheep and goat farm with his wife in Lenawee County. He has been involved in many areas of agriculture throughout his life and was also a member of FFA. Matt began his career at the LISD TECH Center as the teaching assistant in Agri-Tech.
Teacher Assistant
Jim Previch and his wife, Renee, own and operate Previch Durocs, a purebred Duroc swine herd he started as an FFA freshman. Jim was employed at a manufacturing company for 43 years where he served as plant supervisor for the last 15 years. His family includes four grown children and two granddaughters. Jim joined FFA at Onsted Community Schools after moving there early his freshman year from the Metro Detroit area. He attended Ag Tech at Michigan State University after high school.
