As global demographics continue to evolve, IT is essential to ensure that the workforce responsible for producing food and clothing is well-prepared to meet the challenges of the future

North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University received $1.1 million in federal Project Grant funding from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) under the Centers of Excellence at 1890 Institutions Program (CFDA 10.523) for the period of September 15, 2025, through September 14, 2028. The 1890 Student Success and Workforce Development (SSWD) Center of Excellence will deliver comprehensive student support services and workforce development programming designed to prepare students in agriculture and food production fields for careers in the evolving global economy.

The Center provides integrated services including mentoring, academic guidance, leadership development, and connections to real-world learning opportunities such as internships, research projects, and community-based experiences. By collaborating with employers, community organizations, and educational partners, the Center creates a structured pipeline to ensure graduates possess the technical competencies and professional skills needed to meet current and future workforce demands in agriculture, food systems, and related industries. The program directly supports NIFA's strategic priorities of increasing diversity in science, technology, engineering, agriculture, and mathematics (STEAM) fields while advancing rural prosperity and agricultural sustainability through workforce development at a historically Black land-grant institution.

The 1890 student success and workforce development (SSWD) center of excellence at north carolina a & T state university is dedicated to helping students reach their full potential in college and beyond. The center focuses on giving students the support, skills, and experiences they need to graduate and succeed in today's workforce.through mentoring, academic guidance, and leadership development, the center creates a strong network of support for students. IT also connects them with real-world opportunities such as internships, research projects, and community-based learning, so they can apply what they learn in the classroom to meaningful work experiences. The center works closely with employers, community organizations, and educational partners to ensure students are prepared for the challenges and opportunities of the modern workforce. By focusing on both student success and workforce development, the center helps build a strong pipeline of talented graduates ready to contribute to their communities, industries, and society.