By Scout Nelson
Kansas Corn officially launched the first session of the Kansas Corn Corps Class 7 in December at Salina. Nine young growers were selected to join this leadership development program that supports the future of the corn industry in Kansas.
The Kansas Corn Corps program began in 2016 to help young farmers grow their leadership, business, and communication skills. The program also provides opportunities to network with other growers and learn more about the corn industry at the state, national, and international levels. These experiences help participants apply new ideas and skills to their own farming operations.
“Kansas Corn Corps is about investing in our young farmers and the future of the corn industry,” says Nicki Fisher, Kansas Corn Programs Manager, Western Kansas Grower Services and coordinator of the Kansas Corn Corps program. “Our goal is for participants to walk away from our program with skills they can put back into their farms and experiences that help them more the corn industry forward.”
The two-day opening session focused on welcoming new participants and helping them understand their roles as young farmers. During the session, participants toured Beck’s Hybrids and Great Plains Manufacturing. These tours allowed growers to see modern production practices, equipment development, and business operations connected to the corn industry.
Participants also received media training from WIBW 580AM Radio Ag Director Greg Akagi. This training helped growers improve communication skills and prepare them to share agriculture stories with the public.
The Kansas Corn Corps Class 7 program runs for 16 months. It includes three learning sessions held in Kansas and one domestic agriculture tour in another region of the United States. These sessions help growers gain hands-on experience and broaden their understanding of agriculture.
The program is funded by the Kansas Corn Growers Association and the Kansas Corn Commission. It is offered free to Kansas Corn Growers Association members who are under 45 years of age and have active roles in their farming operations. More information is available at kscorn.com/corncorps.
The Kansas Corn Corps Class 7 participants are listed below:
- Katie Dolzer, Agenda
- Trey Fisher, St. John
- Carlee Norris, St. John
- Lane Klepper, Ellinwood
- Hannah Lang, Overbrook
- Chase Regehr, Iola
- Camron Shay, Healy
- Casey & Julie Willyard, Atchison
Photo Credit: kansas-corn
Categories: Kansas, Crops, Corn, General