Georgia CTI Students Connect Agriculture to Future Careers During GVRA Day at the Fair
PERRY, GA - Georgia Career and Technical Instruction students from across the state explored agriculture, innovation and career opportunities during GVRA Day at the Fair, held October 14 at the Georgia National Fairgrounds.
Students began the day with the “Stories of Agriculture” passport activity, which guided them through interactive exhibits highlighting Georgia’s agricultural industry. Along the way, they learned how commodities such as pecans, cotton and timber are grown, harvested, processed and transformed into products used every day.
Live demonstrations brought those lessons to life. From goat milking to wool processing, students gained a closer look at the skills, technology and teamwork involved in moving agricultural products from farms to consumers.
During the midday forum, students heard from professionals working throughout Georgia’s agriculture and education sectors.
Panelists included Madison Jarvis, Industry Engagement Manager at the Georgia Center of Innovation, who connects Georgia food and agricultural businesses with resources and partnerships that support growth; Dr. Andrew Thoron, Dean and Professor of the School of Agriculture and Natural Resources at Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College; and Jerrany Silva, Regimar dos Santos and Marcelo Barbara, researchers with the University of Georgia Precision Horticulture Lab.
The panel introduced students to career pathways in agricultural business, higher education, research and precision agriculture. Students learned how researchers and industry professionals work with farms of all sizes to develop and use technology that can improve production, efficiency and sustainability.
Students also learned more about the Georgia Vocational Rehabilitation Agency and the services it provides to help Georgians with disabilities prepare for employment, pursue postsecondary opportunities and build greater independence. GVRA designed the October 14 event to connect classroom learning with real-world career experiences in agriculture and related industries.
After completing the educational activities, students had time to enjoy the rides, food, exhibits and entertainment of the Georgia National Fair while connecting with CTI peers from across the state.
Georgia CTI extends sincere thanks to GVRA for providing this educational and engaging opportunity. We are also grateful to the advisers, teachers, paraprofessionals, volunteers and bus drivers whose time and support made the experience possible for our students.
CLICK HERE for photos from the event.
For further information, please contact:
Mary Davis Donahue
Georgia CTI Executive Director
(P) 678.617.0439 | (F) 706.314.9624
3 Central Plaza, #245, Rome, GA 30161
About Georgia CTI
Our Mission: To provide meaningful transition activities through leadership and employability experiences for students with disabilities in grades 9-12 identified through career, technical, and agricultural education courses in order to increase postsecondary outcomes.