Sessions to assess ag workforce needs

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) -- Seven listening sessions will be held across Minnesota this month to assess employers' workforce needs in agriculture and agribusiness.

The sessions are being organized by the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities system, the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce and the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development.

The sessions will be held this week through July 31 in Austin, Crookston, Little Falls, Mankato, Marshall, Minneapolis and Moorhead. They will focus on occupations involving agricultural mechanics and equipment, animal science, farm business operations and management, food science and technology, and plant and soil science.

MnSCU Chancellor Steven Rosenstone says they want to ensure that higher education is delivering the right programs and preparing graduates with the skills necessary for the future success of Minnesota's agricultural economy.