Merced College Prepares Students for Agriculture’s Future

Modern agriculture needs more than farmers—it needs skilled professionals who understand technology, food processing, automation, marketing and the rapidly changing demands of the agricultural industry. On the latest edition of the AgNet News Hour, “The Ag Meter” Nick Papagni and Sir Josh McGill spoke with Cody Jacobsen, Dean of Agriculture and Industrial Technology at Merced College, about how the college is preparing students for those opportunities.

Jacobsen highlighted Merced College’s strong connections with California high schools and FFA programs. The college hosts statewide FFA competitions, welding finals and other agricultural contests while bringing students onto campus to experience its facilities and interact with industry partners. Those visits can open students’ eyes to careers they may not have previously considered, including drone operations, food processing, packaging, automation and advanced agricultural technology.

One of the standout programs is the college’s food processing and innovation work. Students can develop and test products while experimenting with different packaging formats and learning how marketing influences consumer purchasing decisions. Jacobsen said Central Valley employers continue to need skilled workers, making industry-driven training an important part of Merced College’s mission.

Jacobsen also discussed plans to keep the college ahead of industry trends. Merced College is developing an agricultural technology and food systems bachelor’s degree, with a goal of having the program available by 2028. The program is designed to give students practical skills they can take directly into the workforce while preparing them for the increasing use of technology in agriculture.

The interview also addressed the importance of agricultural education in California. Jacobsen said the state needs to continue educating students, the public and policymakers about agriculture while ensuring that programs remain connected to the realities facing farmers and businesses. He emphasized that Merced College’s facilities and programs benefit not only students but the broader regional economy.

Technology was another major theme. The hosts discussed the rapid growth of agricultural drones, automation, precision farming and other tools. Jacobsen’s philosophy is to train students on the technology farmers and agricultural businesses are using today—not equipment from decades ago. The Ag Meter team also noted that growers increasingly need technology that can provide a practical return on investment within a season or two.

For families and students considering an agricultural career, the message is clear: agriculture offers far more opportunities than traditional farming alone. From food processing and marketing to drones, automation and advanced technology, Merced College is working to prepare the next generation for those careers.

Listen to the full interview with Cody Jacobsen on The AgNet News Hour to hear more about Merced College’s innovative programs and the future of agricultural education.

Listen to the full Part 2 interview below or on your favorite podcast app.