More than 250 Nebraska high school students are spending the week on the University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s East Campus, building leadership skills, exploring agricultural careers and making industry connections through the Nebraska Ag Youth Institute (NAYI).
The five-day conference, organized by the Nebraska Agricultural Youth Council in partnership with the Nebraska Department of Agriculture, has attracted 252 high school juniors and seniors from across the state this year.
Head Counselor Braydon Binger said one of the biggest benefits is exposing students to career opportunities while connecting them with professionals already working in agriculture.
“One of the biggest opportunities delegates have this week is the opportunity to really listen and learn from industry professionals that they are interested in.”
Students participate in career panels covering fields including agricultural communications, education and agribusiness, giving them the chance to ask questions and learn what comes after high school and college.
Binger, a former NAYI delegate himself, said investing in young people is critical to Nebraska’s agricultural future.
“Giving youth the opportunities to learn and just advance their skill set and give them the encouragement they need to get involved in the community… is super important.”
Growing up in Hays Springs – a town of about 500 people – Binger said attending the institute broadened his own view of agriculture beyond production farming.
“Being able to come to NAYI and learn about different opportunities in ag and how some of those can supplement the family farm back home was very beneficial.”
NAYI is held annually on UNL’s East Campus, with applications for next year’s conference typically opening in the spring through the Nebraska Department of Agriculture.