In the News: Wisconsin Agricultural Education & Workforce Development Council (WAEWDC)

Wisconsin's Agriculture Industry Struggles To Fill Open Positions. (Wisconsin Public Radio News, 7/30/2013)

According to the article, 10% of Wisconsin's 35,000 agricultural jobs are unfilled.

WAEWDC vision. Grow Wisconsin’s ability to compete by creating a stronger and sustainable workforce.

WAEWDC mission.  Attract, develop and retain the premium workforce required to Grow Wisconsin’s agricultural industry, food, and natural resource systems.

WAEWDC objectives.

1. Implement the recommendations of the Secretary’s Panel on Agricultural Education. 
2. Work closely with the “Grow Wisconsin” job creation initiative. 
3. Support research related to agricultural employment and educational needs. 
4. Mobilize new and innovative agricultural education programs and projects. 
5. Recommend policies and initiatives to improve agricultural education and workforce development. 
6. Promote recruitment, training and retention of qualified workers. 
7. Encourage youth to pursue related careers. 
8. Serve as an advocate for agricultural workforce diversity. 
9. Advocate for and promote public and private funding for agricultural education and employee development programs. 
10. Encourage and facilitate public-private partnerships and coalitions. 
11. Promote strong agricultural programs in the state educational systems at all levels. 
12. Support recruitment, training and professional development of agricultural educators and leaders.