UNC Greensboro receives $650K federal grant for agricultural education program

Agricultural products such as cotton are part of everyday life, yet many young people have little understanding of how fiber crops become the clothing and textile products they use. As agricultural and manufacturing systems become increasingly technology-driven, there is a growing need to help youth understand how agriculture, data, and innovation work together to produce goods that support the u.s. Economy. Limited exposure to fiber agriculture and textile production can reduce agricultural literacy and awareness of education and career opportunities connected to these industries. This project is based on the premise that immersive, hands-on learning experiences can increase youth understanding of fiber agriculture, strengthen confidence in emerging technologies, and improve awareness of agriculture-connected career pathways.to address this need, grow 360 will develop and deliver interactive virtual reality learning experiences that allow youth to explore farms, textile mills, manufacturing facilities, and other locations involved in producing fiber-based products. Through summer camps, school-year workshops, data-focused learning activities, industry field trips, and career exploration experiences, participants will learn how natural and recycled fibers move from agricultural production to consumer products and how technologies such as virtual reality, artificial intelligence, and data analytics support decision-making throughout the process. An independent evaluation will measure changes in agricultural literacy, technology confidence, and career awareness. Grow 360 is expected to increase understanding of agriculture's role in everyday products, strengthen interest in agriculture- and technology-related career opportunities, and provide freely available educational resources that can be used by educators and youth-serving organizations nationwide. By helping young people better understand the connections among agriculture, technology, manufacturing, and consumer products, the project will contribute to workforce development and broader public understanding of an important u.s. Industry.