MJC Agriculture – Excellence in Education
T
he recipient of the Excellence in Education Award recognizes a local program, project, event, or individual that displays the following criteria: is visionary/forward looking, demonstrates advancement of the community’s economic well-being by preparing the future workforce with up-to-date skills and good work habits, and shows significant evidence of cooperation between the recipient and one or more members within the community. Modesto Junior College Agriculture offers one of the most comprehensive community college agriculture programs in the nation. MJC’s agriculture curriculum encompasses 18 Associate of Science Degrees and 18 Technician Certificates. Commitment to excellence is evident in the instructional program, which utilizes modern technology and practical hands-on approaches to student learning. Industry collaboration has always been a hallmark of the Modesto Junior College Agriculture Program. Located in the heart of California’s Central Valley ag community, career exploration and industry connections enable students and staff to experience the latest developments and technological advances in food and fiber production.
education
Real world experience is a key element of the MJC Ag instructional program. Work experience sites are developed in agriculture business, crop and fruit production, agriculture mechanics, animal science, dairy science, ornamental horticulture, forestry, poultry science and soils areas. With the belief that internships are a great benefit to students in the MJC agriculture program, the faculty and staff encourages and helps to place as many students as possible. From local irrigation companies to dairies, veterinary hospitals and flower shops, students are required to complete 300 hours of paid work experience or 240 hours of volunteer work experience in order to receive their degree. This work experience is accomplished right here in our community.
26
Modesto Chamber of Commerce I ModChamber.org
And many of our graduates remain right here, providing a boost to our economy daily. Over the past ten decades, thousands of MJC Agriculture program graduates have helped the industry grow and thrive, providing food for the region, the state, the nation and the world. MJC’s Ag Program offers a unique blend of modern instruction offered by a diverse, talented and dedicated staff utilizing the most current technology in an applied classes and farm laboratory setting. It is the vision of the MJC Agriculture Department to continue to provide the most outstanding agricultural education experience for the existing and future leaders of this dynamic and rich agricultural industry. Recent honors for the program include: National Agriculture Science Hall of Fame, California Outstanding Community College Agriculture Program, and Statewide Program Review.
