By Blake Jackson
Young dairy professionals across Pennsylvania have an opportunity to advance their careers through the 2027 Pennsylvania Dairy Summit Young Dairy Professionals Scholarship.
The program will provide eligible applicants with discounted access to the annual industry event, along with a new mentorship experience designed to help participants explore career opportunities in the dairy sector.
The 2027 Pennsylvania Dairy Summit is scheduled for February 2-4, 2027, at State College. Through a partnership involving the Center for Dairy Excellence, Dairy Excellence Foundation and Pennsylvania Dairymen’s Association, selected scholarship recipients can attend the full event for a registration fee of $50.
For the first time, applicants who submit their scholarship applications early can also participate in a Summit Mentorship Experience during winter break.
Participants will be matched with a nearby dairy farmer or industry professional based on their career interests and receive an opportunity to shadow that individual for a day.
“We’re excited to launch this mentorship experience to help young dairy professionals broaden their horizons with a shadowing opportunity. We’ll pair you with a nearby dairy farmer or industry professional who matches your career interests to shadow over winter break,” said Michelle Shearer, Workforce Development Manager at the Center for Dairy Excellence.
“Shadow them for a day, get insight into your future career path, and then take those new connections to the next level in February at the Dairy Summit with more than 350 dairy professionals across the industry.”
Those interested in the mentorship opportunity must submit their scholarship applications by November 30, 2026, to allow sufficient time for matching with an industry professional.
In addition to discounted summit registration, selected recipients will receive a complimentary hotel room, admission to the Young Professionals Opening Night Reception featuring a panel discussion with young dairy professionals, and participation in a career development workshop.
Applicants must be between 18 and 30 years old as of February 1, 2027. Adult high school, college or university agriculture advisors and professors may also apply.
Eligible candidates must operate or work on a dairy farm, attend an agricultural education program at a high school, college or trade school, or teach agriculture.
Applicants must also reside in Pennsylvania or attend an agricultural program at a Pennsylvania college or university and agree to pay the $50 registration fee.
The final scholarship application deadline is January 15, 2027. Applications are available at www.padairysummit.org under the “Young Professionals” section.
For additional information, contact Michelle Shearer at mshearer@centerfordairyexcellence.org or 570-768-8316.
Photo Credit: center-of-dairy-excellence
Categories: Pennsylvania, Education, Livestock, Dairy Cattle