#NACTA26 Workshop Spotlight: Bridging the Gap

Bridging the Gap: Connecting Ag Classrooms to Food and Agriculture Career Readiness in the Age of AI & Connecting Classrooms to Renewable Natural Resources and the Environment Career Readiness in the Age of AI

The NACTA 2026 Annual Conference, held in Starkville, Mississippi, USA, will feature 18 unique and engaging workshops throughout the conference. Listed below are two of our featured workshops.

Bridging the Gap: Connecting Ag Classrooms to Food and Agriculture Career Readiness in the Age of AI
*Date and Time: Monday, June 22, 2026, 2:30 PM - 4:00 PM CDT
Presenters:
Mark Russell - Purdue University
Donald Mulvaney - Auburn University
William Nelson - William J. Nelson, LLC
Allen Wysocki - University of Florida
Mark Gagnon - Pennsylvania State University
Cheryl Wachenheim - North Dakota State University

Bridging the Gap: Connecting Ag Classrooms to Renewable Natural Resources and the Environment Career Readiness in the Age of AI
*Date and Time: Wednesday, June 24, 2026, 2:30 PM - 4:00 PM CDT
Presenters:
Mark Russell - Purdue University
Cheryl Wachenheim - North Dakota State University
Mark Gagnon - Pennsylvania State University
Allen Wysocki - University of Florida
William Nelson - William J. Nelson, LLC
Donald Mulvaney - Auburn University

*Schedule subject to change

In a rapidly evolving world shaped by technology and artificial intelligence, the future of agricultural careers demands more than technical know-how, it requires adaptable, communicative and resilient graduates ready to lead. Yet, despite a promising job outlook, employers continue to report a “career-readiness gap” between college graduates’ perceived abilities and the realities of professional success in agriculture, food, and natural resources.

This interactive workshop brings together leading agricultural industry recruiters, career development professionals, and academic leaders to unpack what employers truly prioritize when hiring the next generation of agriculture professionals. Through dynamic dialogue and real-world examples, participants will hear directly from those making hiring decisions about the traits, competencies and experiences that set candidates apart and how artificial intelligence is reshaping the recruiting and selection processes. Studies consistently reveal a disconnect between what students believe makes them employable and what employers actually prioritize. Panelists will share real-world hiring insights and review trends (e.g., NACE, APLU, and USDA). The literature regarding national employer studies consistently identifies conscientiousness, critical thinking, communication, professionalism, teamwork and digital literacy as the most valued competencies.

For more information, and to register for the NACTA 2026 Annual Conference, please visit www.NACTAconference.org.

We'll see you in Starkville!