KSU encourages Kentucky youth to take an interest in agriculture
Today's world needs professionals to be prepared to solve global challenges related to agribusiness, climate change, a safe and reliable food supply, protection of natural resources, improved nutrition, public health, and alternative energy sources.
Kentucky State University’s College of Agriculture, Food Science, and Sustainable Systems strives to educate young people about the agriculture industry, the latest advancements in technology and research, and to get them interested in the wide variety of careers available in the agricultural and environmental sciences industries. The U.S. Department of Agriculture and the National Institute of Food and Agriculture report the employment outlook is bright for college graduates with degrees in food, renewable energy, and the environment.
Ken Thompson, extension associate in Agriculture, Food, and Environment works with students across the state to spread agriculture education and the influence of the industry on everything that we do.
Beginning in 2017, Thompson will work with high schools across Kentucky to build aquaponics systems in the schools in order to engage students in aquaculture education. Aquaculture is an industry leader and KSU is home to one of the top aquaculture programs in the U.S., known for its innovative research and opportunities in teaching, research, and extension. Building these continuing, longitudinal relationships with schools, Thompson hopes to create a pipeline from the university's service counties to KSU.
in order to engage students in aquaculture education. Aquaculture is an industry leader and KSU is home to one of the top aquaculture programs in the U.S., known for its innovative research and opportunities in teaching, research, and extension. Building these continuing, longitudinal relationships with schools, Thompson hopes to create a pipeline from the university's service counties to KSU.
Thompson also helps oversee an internship program with Frankfort High School that encourages students to spend a semester designing and building their own aquaculture project. The first student in the program constructed a backyard aquaponics system that was then transported to the high school for more students to study and learn from.
Thompson, who is a KSU graduate and was the first student to receive a master's degree in Aquaculture/Aquatic Sciences in the College of Agriculture, Food Science, and Sustainable Systems, hosts more than 1,200 students at KSU's Aquaculture Research Center for tours each year. He is also the recipient of the Conservation Education Award from the Scott County Conservation District.
Ken Thompson, Extension Associate in Agriculture, Food, and Environment