Precision Ag Program For Students

Precision Ag Program For Students FarmBeats for Students, an agriculturally driven, technology-based educational program that integrates artificial intelligence (AI), data science and digital sensors, is currently in place, providing students with hands-on precision agriculture experience. The teaching portfolio empowers educators to spark students’ interest by showcasing the exciting possibilities of combining technology with ag-based sustainability. The program is a joint effort between Microsoft Corp. and the National FFA Organization. As agricultural practices advance, more farmers are adopting ag-based technologies, including autonomous systems, sensors, data analysis, and AI for disease and pest control in both livestock and crop production. Using the FarmBeats for Students kits, students assemble a simple plant-monitoring kit with environmental sensors. They collect data to assess crop health, observe plant growth, recognize climate-related challenges such as extreme heat, and identify pest influences, helping them tackle real, farm-based issues. Additionally, they explore AI by building their own machine-learning models to detect plant nutrient imbalances. Mary Snapp, Microsoft VP of Strategic Initiatives, says, “Microsoft is committed to ensuring students and teachers have the tools they need to succeed in today’s tech-driven world, and that includes giving students hands-on experience with precision farming, data science and AI.” She hopes this collaboration with the FFA will inspire the next generation of agricultural leaders and equip them with the skills to tackle all challenges as they guide agriculture into the future. National FFA Organization Chief Program Officer Christine White appreciates Microsoft’s generous donations and support. “Their investment in our advisors and students is an investment in the future leaders in agriculture and eventually will help fill the void in the talent pipeline,” she says. “The ability to think critically, make data-driven decisions, and apply them to real-world solutions will assist students, regardless of their eventual place in the workforce, whether going into a manufacturing position or a laboratory setting.” Contact: FARM SHOW Followup, FarmBeats for Students (www.aka.ms/FBFS).

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