New Mexico Junior College Launches New Farm and Ranch Management Program

New Mexico Junior College Launches New Farm and Ranch Management Program

By Deira Fernandez

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New Mexico Junior College (NMJC) is very excited to announce the launch of its new Farm and Ranch Management Program, set to begin this fall semester of 2024. Developed to meet the evolving needs of the agricultural industry, this program offers comprehensive education in various aspects of farm and ranch management, equipping students with the skills and knowledge needed for success.

Taught by Ryan Sanders, Professor of Farm and Ranch Management, and Alexa Wilcox, Professor and Associate Head Rodeo Coach. The Farm and Ranch Management Program promises an unmatched educational experience. Sanders will be teaching courses such as, Livestock Evaluation, Ag Mechanics, Forage, Crops & Pasture, as well as Ranch Management: Law and Ethics, and Farm & Ranch Management & Finance. With his expertise, students will gain invaluable insights into the practical and financial aspects of running successful farm and ranch operations.

Sanders shared his excitement about the program saying "The Farm and Ranch program means a lot to me as I feel like it defines me as a person. One of the main factors in adding the program is to continue growing the agriculture programs at NMJC and to keep our heritage intact as farming and ranching plays a huge role in New Mexico’s economy."

Additionally, Wilcox will lend her expertise to the program, offering specialized instruction in International Agriculture. Her insights into global agricultural practices will provide students with a broader perspective and prepare them to navigate the complexities of today's linked agricultural landscape.

This program aligns with NMJC’s ongoing Animal Science and Equine Studies, providing students with a thorough understanding of diverse agricultural components. Shanna LaCount, Professor and Director of Animal Science shared her vision of the program. "The main factor in adding this program is to provide another avenue for workforce training and agriculture to come together and allow students the training and opportunity to be successful within the industry. This allows NMJC to offer additional agricultural degree options to local and surrounding areas," LaCount remarked. "Degree programs like this are not common, and this will provide our students with an extensive and unique skill set and ability to enter the workforce ready for work!" 

 

New Mexico Junior College (NMJC) is a leading educational institution committed to providing success through learning and high-quality education to its diverse student body. Founded in 1965, NMJC offers a wide range of academic programs, certifications, and services to empower students to achieve their educational and career goals.

Contact: Valerie Onsurez Gauna, Director of Outreach & Engagement, 575-492-2780, vgauna@nmjc.edu, or Deira Fernandez, Recruiter, 575-492-2776, dfernandez@nmjc.edu.