Calibrating tomorrow's ag technology workforce

(May 18, 2023) -- Industrial Technology Department faculty Dr. Balaji Sethuramasamyraja (Seth) shared his experience with innovative technology as a panelist at the recent AgTechX Ed Summit at West Hills College Lemoore.

The event, which was dedicated to developing the next generation of tech-savvy agricultural workers, is part of the AgTechX Ed Initiative, which is a statewide effort with the Western Growers Center for Innovation and Technology, California Department of Food and Agriculture and West Hills College Lemoore.

He spoke about a range of topics of education and workforce development strategies, as well as the:

• AgTEC Fresno Merced Economic Development Agency collaborative initiative to build Central Valley farm worker development curriculum
• San Joaquin Valley Manufacturing Alliance initiative to build ag industrial manufacturing base at Fresno State and with pipeline school districts and community colleges
• West Hills College Lemoore's programs to creating pathways for students to transfer to Industrial Technology and Ag Systems Management programs (and he serves as a West Hills College Lemoore Industrial Advisory Board member)
• work-based learning opportunities for Fresno State students through industry collaboration in agriculture's digital transformation

Sethuramasamyraja represented four-year, CSU faculty at the event, and oversees our Fresno State Industrial Technology Department's Precision Agriculture Technology minor and Agricultural Systems Management option.