Legislation that would require MnSCU to establish a pilot program to encourage veterans to enter agriculture and food production-related careers was heard before the Senate Higher Education and Workforce Development Budget Division this week.
The legislation would appropriate funds in 2016 to establish a pilot program at South Central College’s North Mankato campus; in 2017, funds would be appropriated to establish up to six other sites statewide.
The Veterans-to-Agriculture program would be coordinated by South Central College’s Southern Minnesota Center of Agriculture and developed in coordination with specified expert organizations. Enrollees would go through a four- to eight-week training in relevant fields of study, job development programs, and appropriate career-building skills. When the veterans complete the program, they receive a certificate of completion or academic credit. Legislative reporting requirements are included in the bill.
The bill was laid over as amended for possible inclusion in the Higher Ed Budget Omnibus Bill. (S.F. 653)
