Agriculture is becoming increasingly dependent on advanced technologies such as sensors, drones, artificial intelligence (AI), and data-driven decision-making

The Department of Agriculture National Institute of Food and Agriculture awarded the Board of Trustees of Southern Illinois University $650,000 on September 1, 2026, under the Agriculture and Food Research Initiative (CFDA 10.310) to deliver hands-on agricultural STEM learning opportunities for youth in Illinois and Missouri through workshops, demonstrations, field experiences, and public showcase events focused on sensors, smart irrigation, drones, artificial intelligence, and precision agriculture. The project is a collaborative effort involving Southern Illinois University Carbondale, the University of Missouri, and 4-H programs in both states. Youth participants will engage in technology demonstrations, field data collection, teamwork exercises, and problem-solving projects, with educational materials and outreach resources developed to support community engagement. Expected outcomes include increased youth interest and confidence in STEM and agricultural careers, stronger STEM knowledge, improved teamwork and leadership skills, greater awareness of agricultural innovation, and increased participation in STEM-related educational activities. The project operates from September 1, 2026, through August 31, 2030, with place of performance in Carbondale, Illinois.

However, many youth have limited opportunities to gain hands-on experience with these technologies or learn how they are used in modern farming. This GAP may reduce awareness of stem education pathways and future agricultural career opportunities. Preparing the next generation with practical knowledge of agricultural technologies is important for supporting agricultural productivity, environmental sustainability, workforce development, and community growth. This project brings together southern illinois university carbondale (siuc), the university of missouri (MU), and 4-h programs in illinois and missouri to provide hands-on agricultural stem learning opportunities for youth. Participants will engage in workshops, demonstrations, field experiences, and public showcase events related to sensors, smart irrigation, drones, AI, and precision agriculture. Youth will learn through practical activities such as technology demonstrations, field data collection, teamwork exercises, and problem-solving projects. Educational materials and outreach resources will also be developed to support community engagement and agricultural stem education. The project aims to increase youth interest and confidence in stem and agricultural careers while improving understanding of modern agricultural technologies. Expected outcomes include stronger stem knowledge, improved teamwork and leadership skills, greater awareness of agricultural innovation, and increased participation in stem-related educational activities. The project also seeks to strengthen collaboration between universities, 4-h programs, educators, and local communities. Long-term benefits may include better preparation of future agricultural and stem workforce leaders, stronger educational opportunities, and increased public awareness of technology-supported agriculture.