By Blake Jackson
State University of New York Chancellor John B. King Jr. visited SUNY Cobleskill on Monday to announce the creation of the SUNY Agritech Center, an initiative aimed at strengthening New York’s agricultural workforce and advancing the use of emerging technologies in farming.
The center, included in Chancellor King’s 2025 State of the University Policy Agenda, will unite partners from state agencies, the agriculture industry, and SUNY campuses to address both current and future needs within the sector.
"The SUNY Agritech Center embodies SUNY's important role supporting rural communities to be leaders in the agricultural economy," said SUNY Chancellor King. "The launch of the SUNY Agritech Center builds on New York State's ongoing work to address industry needs through education, workforce development, research, and more. I look forward to seeing our SUNY campuses work with state and local partners to lead innovation in this industry."
“SUNY is committed to strengthening the agriculture industry in New York State by working with our government and industry partners to anticipate and fulfill future industry needs," SUNY Board of Trustees said.
"The SUNY Agritech Center advances this important work by acting as a body of expertise that draws connections between the key stakeholders in the agriculture industry.”
More than 7,500 SUNY students are currently enrolled in agriculture-related programs, with about 1,400 graduating each year. SUNY campuses contribute to agricultural innovation through work in climate resilience, robotics, invasive species management, and farm-based data research.
“The SUNY Agritech Center represents a strategic response to the defining challenges of our time: ensuring food security, advancing sustainable practices, and preparing the next generation of leaders who will advance these vital industries," SUNY Cobleskill President Marion Terenzio said.
"In bringing together the expertise of SUNY campuses, state partners, and industry leaders, SUNY is creating new pathways for innovation that will strengthen New York's agricultural economy and position our graduates to create impactful change in communities across the state."
The Agritech Center builds on earlier efforts, including the Agriculture Technology Workforce Summit launched in 2023. This year’s summit, held at SUNY Cobleskill, highlighted the university’s leadership in applied agricultural training and rural economic development through its Institute for Rural Vitality.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-stockseller_ukr
Categories: New York, Education, Sustainable Agriculture