This project addresses the growing need for advanced agricultural education and workforce development focused on drone technology and precision agriculture

The Department of Agriculture National Institute of Food and Agriculture awarded Western Kentucky University $150,000 on August 1, 2026, under the Capacity Building for Non-Land Grant Colleges of Agriculture program (CFDA 10.326) to develop educational programs and hands-on learning opportunities centered on drone technology and precision agriculture.

The project will create curriculum materials, instructional resources, and experiential learning opportunities for students, educators, and community members that demonstrate how drones collect aerial imagery, monitor crop health, identify pest or irrigation issues, and support data-driven farm management decisions. Faculty members will participate in professional development activities to strengthen knowledge of precision agriculture tools and improve instruction. Outreach activities and demonstrations will provide farmers and community members with practical information about how drone technology and precision agriculture can improve productivity, reduce input costs, and support sustainable farming practices.

Performance takes place in Bowling Green, Kentucky, with a period of performance from August 1, 2026, through July 31, 2028. The award is a project grant under the assistance type classification.

Farmers today face increasing challenges related to rising production costs, labor shortages, and the need to produce more food using fewer resources. Precision agriculture technologies, including drones, sensors, mapping software, and data analysis tools, are becoming essential for improving efficiency and sustainability in modern farming. However, many rural communities, schools, and agricultural programs have limited access to training and educational opportunities related to these rapidly evolving technologies. Without additional research, education, and workforce preparation, communities risk falling behind in the adoption of innovative farming practices that can improve crop production, reduce waste, conserve natural resources, and strengthen local economies.to address these challenges, the project will develop educational programs and hands-on learning opportunities centered on drone technology and precision agriculture applications. Students, educators, and community members will participate in training activities that demonstrate how drones can be used to collect aerial imagery, monitor crop health, identify pest or irrigation issues, and support data-driven farm management decisions. The project will also create curriculum materials, instructional resources, and experiential learning opportunities that introduce participants to modern agricultural technologies and their practical uses in the field. Faculty members will participate in professional development activities to strengthen their knowledge of precision agriculture tools and improve instruction. In addition, outreach activities and demonstrations will provide farmers and community members with practical information about how drone technology and precision agriculture can improve productivity, reduce input costs, and support more sustainable farming practices. The ultimate goal of the project is to prepare students and agricultural communities to successfully use emerging technologies that are transforming modern agriculture. By increasing access to education and training in drone technology and precision agriculture, the project seeks to build a stronger and more technologically skilled agricultural workforce while helping producers make more informed and efficient management decisions. Expected outcomes include increased student engagement in agricultural sciences, expanded career readiness in high-demand technology fields, improved awareness and adoption of precision agriculture practices, and stronger partnerships between educational institutions and local agricultural communities. If successful, the project will contribute to more sustainable food production, improved environmental stewardship, stronger rural economies, and greater long-term resilience within the agricultural industry and the communities that depend upon i, t.