A bipartisan proposal introduced in Congress would significantly expand federal support for agricultural education and workforce training programs at community and technical colleges, aiming to strengthen a critical talent pipeline for an industry facing growing labor and technological demands.
The Community College Agriculture Advancement Act would establish a competitive grant program through the U.S. Department of Agriculture, allowing nearly 1,100 community colleges nationwide to compete for funding to develop and expand agriculture-related workforce training, research, outreach and educational programs.
Supporters say the measure addresses a longstanding gap in federal agricultural education funding. While community colleges train thousands of students for careers in farming, agribusiness, natural resources and agricultural technology, much of the federal support for agricultural education has historically flowed to four-year universities and land-grant institutions.
The legislation would authorize $20 million annually through 2031 for grants designed to help colleges expand instructional capacity, purchase equipment, develop apprenticeships and work-based learning opportunities, and strengthen partnerships with local agricultural employers. Programs focused on farm business management, including finance, accounting and related disciplines, would also be eligible for support.
A key provision would give funding priority to institutions that collaborate directly with agricultural businesses and producers to provide students with hands-on training and real-world industry experience.
The bill also would allow qualifying institutions to seek designation as Centers of Agriculture Advancement, a new federal recognition intended to promote best practices and provide regional or national leadership in agricultural workforce development.
The proposal comes as agricultural employers across the country report increasing demand for workers with specialized technical skills. Modern farming operations rely heavily on precision agriculture, data analytics, automation, advanced equipment and business management expertise, creating workforce needs that extend far beyond traditional production agriculture.
Community colleges have become an increasingly important entry point into those careers, particularly in rural areas where two-year institutions often maintain close relationships with local employers and offer programs tailored to regional workforce demands.
Advocates argue that additional federal investment could help colleges modernize equipment, expand faculty expertise and create more pathways for students seeking careers in agriculture without pursuing a four-year degree.
“Community colleges play a vital role in building the skilled agricultural workforce our nation depends on,” said Dr. Tracy Kruse, executive director of the Community College Alliance for Agriculture Advancement, which supports the legislation. “This legislation will expand access to high-quality training, strengthen partnerships with local industry, and equip students with the technology-driven skills needed to lead modern agriculture.”
The measure was introduced in the Senate by Sen. John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.) with bipartisan support from lawmakers representing both agricultural and nonagricultural states. A companion bill has been introduced in the House by Rep. Trent Kelly (R-Miss.).
If enacted, the legislation would amend the National Agricultural Research, Extension, and Teaching Policy Act of 1977 and direct USDA to evaluate the program’s effectiveness within three years of implementation.
CLICK HERE to read the full text of the legislation.
