Calling All High School Sophomores

Agriculture has a tremendous impact on our nation’s economy, and Missouri is at the heart of this industry. It is important that young people carry on the tradition and heritage of those who have made this state the agricultural leader it is today and develop the skills necessary to continue that legacy in the future.

The Missouri Department of Agriculture is offering 30 high school students representing 4-H clubs and FFA chapters, as well as farm families, throughout Missouri the opportunity to explore careers in agriculture through the 2021 Missouri Agribusiness Academy (MAbA). MAbA is a competitive program for sophomores interested in pursuing agriculture-related degrees and careers.

Applicants will be sorted into six geographical regions, and five students from each region will attend the Missouri Agribusiness Academy. Written applications will be scored by a panel of independent judges. The top 10 applicants per region will move into the semi-finals and will be invited to an interview. For our area the interviews will be held in Sedalia on March 16, 2021. You click on this link for the application. Students interested in participating must submit an application by Feb. 1, 2021.

The students selected will have a yearlong opportunity to learn about the unique opportunities for careers in the Kansas City area, volunteer at the Missouri State Fair and learn more about the agriculture industry in Jefferson City. The 2021 schedule will be finalized in the spring and may include visits with industry and agribusiness leaders, as well as tours of their facilities, as the public health situation allows.