03/29/2024
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DUBLIN-Bladen Community College is offering a new course of study this fall, Agri-Business Technology and has a new instructor, Lynn Marshburn. Lynn is a native of Lenoir County and graduated from NC State University. Upon graduation, she went on to work for the Cooperative Extension in Sampson County as its Livestock Agent. Most recently, she worked for Duplin County Schools as an agriculture education teacher and FFA advisor. She was Duplin’s Teacher of the Year in 2018-19. She is married and has three children.

Ms. Marshburn encourages those interested in agri-business technology to enroll in her classes now and emphasizes that it is not too late to enroll in the twelve week fall session beginning Sept. 16. “Many students can prepare for their agri-business technology careers at the community college, whether they intend to enter the workforce with an associate's degree or are currently working in an agricultural career. Taking these classes is a great way to familiarize yourself with the various aspects of agri-business.” remarked Ms. Marshburn.

She added “In the college’s agri-business technology program, the course options are varied to provide knowledge about different facets of agriculture. Some of the new courses offered this fall at BCC are: Intro to Sustainable Agriculture, AG Law and Finance, Agriculture Marketing and Animal Science.”

The Agri-business Technology curriculum is designed to provide the entrepreneurial and technical skills necessary to manage a profitable, environmentally sound, community based small farm or agricultural business. Students will learn the fundamentals of agriculture, focusing on crop production, financial management, techniques for raising livestock, vegetable or fruit crops and starting their own sustainable agricultural business. Emphasis is placed on entrepreneurial and field training. Students will also learn the basic principles of the economic system and government policies and programs relating to agriculture. Graduates of the Agri-business Technology program should qualify for a variety of jobs in agricultural businesses such as equipment, feed, and agricultural supply sales; store management; farm operations; wholesale and retail produce management; nursery operations; and environmental and agricultural education. Many of these jobs are available in our community and are high- paying. For example, according to the NC Dept. of Labor, a farm manager average salary is $62,933, grain elevator manager is $76,615 and 4-H program assistant starts at $30,000 annually.

Dr. Amanda Lee, BCC President, said “whether you have experience in the agricultural field or not, we will take you where you are and help you grow in this field.  Earning this degree will help you whether you are just learning about our local agriculture or expanding your knowledge to be more successful in your current position.”

“If you are interested in the agri-business technology program at Bladen Community College, it's a great idea to speak with our academic advisors at our advising center to ensure that you are taking the correct classes– ones that will prepare you for pursuing your goals whatever they may be. Community colleges make getting an education much cheaper and logistically easier for many. Several of the courses in our Agri-Business Technology program are online courses.” added Jeff Kornegay, Executive Vice President and Chief Academic Officer.

For more information, visit the college website at www.bladencc.edu or contact the Advising Center at 910.879.5584 or email bccadvising@bladencc.edu.

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