Ag Ed & STS Professional Development

Location: Nebraska Innovation Studio, Lincoln, NE
Cost: $200
Host organization:  University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Nebraska Innovation Studio
Register:  HERE 
Optional graduate credit available: ALEC 893, Sec TBA, Class 8520 (3 hours)  Instructions on registering. Course instructor: Eric Knoll.  Graduate course requirements: Attend all professional development contact hours and provide certification certification of the FAA Aeronautical Knowledge Exam Pilot License Exam ($175 fee required).

Description: Ready for take-off! This 2-day comprehensive course will prepare you for the FAA Aeronautical Knowledge Test. Also known as the Part 107 exam, this is the required starting point for anyone planning to fly drones commercially. Our expert instruction and interactive learning materials will guide you through the exam’s complexities, ensuring you are fully prepared to take to the skies as a certified commercial drone pilot. This class will also feature hands-on drone flying experience.

Location: Raising Nebraska, Fonner Park, Grand Island
Cost: $50 stipend pending funding request; if not fully funded, $15 registration for meal
Host organization: Nebraska Extension - University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Register:  HERE, due by May 19

Description: A brand-new virtual reality program coming from Nebraska, Alaska, and Hawai’i Extension will actively engage youth in agriculture across the country. Youth discover where their food comes from by not only participating in virtual reality tours from the three states but creating their own virtual reality experiences for their peers to view. Using VG googles, 360 cameras and other video making tools, these youth are learning the origins of agriculture and how it has evolved over time with current and future agricultural production technologies. Explore agriculture without leaving the classroom OR develop your own VR field trips to share!

Location: Central Community College, Kearney Campus
Cost: $64.50 (Stipend available for those who qualify)
Host organization:  Central Community College and Nebraska Department of Education Career and Technical Education
Register: HERE
Optional graduate credit available: ALEC 893, Sec 298, Class 8485 (3 hours)  Instructions on registering. Graduate course expectations found HERE. All assignments are due Friday, August 1, 2025.

Description: The "Overview of Programmable Logic Controllers" workshop introduces PLC fundamentals using the Allen-Bradley Micro850 controller. Participants will explore the core principles of PLC operation, including input/output processing and ladder logic programming. Through interactive exercises, attendees will gain hands-on experience configuring and programming the Micro850 with Connected Components Workbench (CCW) software. The workshop is designed for beginners who want to build a solid foundation in PLCs, equipping them with essential skills to design, implement, and troubleshoot basic automation systems.

Location: Southeast Community College, The Career Academy, Lincoln
Cost: FREE
Host organization:  Southeast Community College and Nebraska Department of Education Career and Technical Education
Register: HERE
Optional graduate credit available: ALEC 893, Sec 302, Class 8489 (3 hours)  Instructions on registering. Course instructor: Eric Knoll.  Graduate course expectations found HERE. All assignments are due Friday, August 1, 2025.

Description: This course covers fundamental safety principles and proper usage of tools and equipment. Students will learn the basic theory of tools, materials, and fasteners, along with both basic and advanced processes and best practices. Those seeking SENCAP endorsement will also need to attend on June 5-6^th. 

Location: Southeast Community College, The Career Academy, Lincoln
Cost: FREE
Host organization:  Central Community College and Nebraska Department of Education Career and Technical Education
Register: HERE
Optional graduate credit available: ALEC 893, Sec 303, Class 8490 (3 hours)  Instructions on registering. Course instructor: Eric Knoll.  Graduate course expectations found HERE. All assignments are due Friday, August 1, 2025. 

Description: This course covers fundamentals of Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW), including safety procedures, equipment setup, and welding techniques. Those seeking SENCAP endorsement will also need to attend on June 5-6^th.

Location: Southeast Community College, The Career Academy, Lincoln
Cost: FREE
Host organization:  Central Community College and Nebraska Department of Education Career and Technical Education
Register: HERE
Optional graduate credit available: ALEC 893, Sec 304, Class 8491 (3 hours)  Instructions on registering. Course instructor: Eric Knoll.  Graduate course expectations found HERE. All assignments are due Friday, August 1, 2025.

Description: This course will help students develop and refine their skills in mechanical, electrical, and automation systems. Through hands-on training and industry-relevant concepts, students will learn how to integrate mechatronics principles into their classrooms, preparing students for careers in in the field. The course emphasizes practical applications, troubleshooting, and best practices for effective instruction. Instructors attending this session would have the opportunity to earn an NC3 Introduction to Mechatronics Certification at the completion of this course. 

Location: Southeast Community College, Sandhills Global Technology Center, Lincoln, NE
Cost: FREE (Stipends available for participation and additional stipend for implementation in the 2025-26 school year)
Host organization:  Southeast Community College and Metropolitan Community College 
Register: HERE 
Optional graduate credit available: ALEC 890, Sec 300, Class 8298 (3 hours)  Instructions on registering. Course contact: Stacie Turnbull.  Graduate course expectations found HERE. All assignments are due Friday, August 1, 2025.

Description:  By the end of the workshop, participants will:

• Engage in various BABEC lessons covering micropipetting to bacterial transformation, acquiring technical knowledge, tips, and tricks, and mastering result interpretation.
• Feel confident in setting up reagents and equipment for BABEC lessons in their classrooms.
• Collaborate with fellow educators to effectively integrate these lessons into their Biology, Chemistry, Biotechnology, and other CTE courses.
• Connect with community college faculty and learn about the biotechnology industry in your region.

Location: Central Community College, Hastings Campus
Cost: $64.50 (Stipend available for those who qualify)
Host organization:  Central Community College and Nebraska Department of Education Career and Technical Education
Register: HERE
Optional graduate credit available: ALEC 893, Sec 300, Class 8487 (3 hours)  Instructions on registering. Course instructor: Eric Knoll.  Graduate course expectations found HERE. All assignments are due Friday, August 1, 2025.

Description: This hands-on workshop is designed for individuals looking to gain foundational knowledge and skills in residential electrical wiring. Participants will learn the essential techniques for installing and troubleshooting electrical systems, including switches and lighting commonly found in homes.

Location: Niobrara Valley Preserve, south of Johnstown, NE
Cost: $0
Host organization: USDA – NRCS
Register: Contact chelzer@TNC.ORG to register

Each workshop will run from roughly 9 am to 2:30 pm and cover plant identification (mostly grasslands) and habitat management and restoration practices.  No cost to attend.  Youth can attend with FFA Advisors. 

Location: Central Community College, Hastings Campus
Cost: $64.50 (Stipend available for those who qualify)
Host organization:  Central Community College and Nebraska Department of Education Career and Technical Education
Register: HERE
Optional graduate credit available: ALEC 893, Sec 299, Class 8486 (3 hours)  Instructions on registering. Course instructor: Eric Knoll.  Graduate course expectations found HERE. All assignments are due Friday, August 1, 2025. 

Description: Join us for an engaging Soil Science Workshop.
   1. Digging Deeper: Explore Plant Science Labs and Soil Health and understand the vital connection between plant science and soil health.
   2. Soil Sampling 101: Learn the best practices for soil sampling, including where to take samples and how to interpret results and read reports.
   3. Fact-Based Discussions: We will address key issues in agriculture and the environment with informed dialogue.
   4. John Deere Operations Center: Discover practical applications for agricultural education.
   5. Precision Agriculture Takes Flight: Explore the benefits of drone technology in modern farming practices.

Location: Central Community College, Kearney Campus
Cost: $49.50 (Stipend available for those who qualify)
Host organization:  Central Community College
Register: HERE

Description: The workshop covers the essentials of hydraulic and pneumatic systems in industrial and mechanical applications. This hands-on session introduces key concepts such as fluid properties and system components. Attendees will gain practical experience with hydraulic and pneumatic components, pressure and flow control, and actuator operation. It is designed to provide a solid foundation in fluid power technology.

Location: Younes Conference Center South, Kearney, NE
Cost: TBA
Host organization: Nebraska Department of Education, Career and Technical Education
Register: HERE.
Optional graduate credit available: ALEC 893, Sec 803, Class 7420 (1 hour)  Instructions on registering. Course instructor: Nathan Conner.  Graduate course expectations: Scholarly report due August 1, 2025. See syllabus on CANVAS, for assignment details, after registering for the course. 

The Nebraska Career & Technical Education Conference is the premier professional development event for CTE teachers in Nebraska! The focus of the conference will be to address current and ongoing themes in Career & Technical Education and support administrators and teachers throughout the state in learning new pedagogical skills and technical content, while expanding their professional network. 

Location: Platte River Prairies, Wood River, NE
Cost: $0
Host organization: USDA – NRCS
Register: Contact chelzer@TNC.ORG to register

Each workshop will run from roughly 9 am to 2:30 pm and cover plant identification (mostly grasslands) and habitat management and restoration practices.  No cost to attend.  Youth can attend with FFA Advisors. 

Location: UNL East Campus, Lincoln, NE
Cost: Varies (see below)
Host organization: University of Nebraska Lincoln-CASNR 
Register: Register for one or multiple days HERE. 
Optional graduate credit available: ALEC 890, Sec 290, Class 8281 (3 hours)  Instructions on registering. Course contact: Stacie Turnbull.  Graduate course expectations found HERE. All assignments are due Friday, August 1, 2025.

• Ag Technology June 16, 9 am to 4 pm 
  • Session description:  Educators will be introduced to some of the newest technologies using in crop and livestock production systems. Attendees will learn about some of the newest sensors, communications technologies, data analysis systems and robots that are being used in agriculture today. We will discuss ways that such systems could be demonstrated or discussed in high school coursework as well.
  • Location: Chase Hall/Splinter Labs 
  • Cost: $40 (lunch provided)
• Exploring Food Science, One Bite at a Time!  June 17, 9 am to 4 pm 
  • Session description: Educators will be introduced to a series of food science-based activities that allow them to engage students while teaching concepts associated with the science behind the foods we eat every day. Activities have been developed for high school students but can and have been easily adapted with middle school students and, a few, with elementary school students.
  • Location: Food Innovation Center (FIC), Nebraska Innovation Campus
  • Cost: $50 (lunch provided)
• Agribusiness, June 18, 9 am to 4 pm
  • Session description: Learn more about the Farm and Agribusiness Curriculum:  what it is, how to use it, and the learning outcomes for students for class and the CDE.   
  • Location: Filley Hall (FYH) 302 
  • Cost: $15 (lunch provided) 
• Animal Science, June 19, 9 am to 4 pm 
  • Session description: Engaging Students in Animal Science
  • Location: Animal Science Complex
  • Cost: $20/person (lunch provided)
• Agronomy, June 20, 9 am to 4 pm
  • Session description: Morning sessions will focus on trait inheritance, with afternoon sessions focused on photosynthesis and plant growth/productivity.
  • Location:  280A Plant Science and the Crops Teaching Garden
  • Cost: $15 (lunch provided)

Location: Morningside University, Sioux City, Iowa
Cost: $100 (Limited $100 registration scholarship provided for Nebraska teachers by the NE FFA Foundation)
Host organization:  National Association of Agricultural Educators (NAAE)
Register: HERE.

Conference includes hands-on workshops, industry tours (including food processing, ag manufacturing, animal science, and more), Morningside Fair Night, Casino Night, and a formal banquet, and unmatched networking with agricultural educators from across Region III.

Location: Southeast Community College, SGTC, Lincoln
Cost: FREE
Host organization:  Central Community College and Nebraska Department of Education Career and Technical Education
Register: HERE
Optional graduate credit available: ALEC 893, Sec 305, Class 8492 (3 hours)  Instructions on registering. Course instructor: Eric Knoll.  Graduate course expectations found HERE. All assignments are due Friday, August 1, 2025.  assessment related to the 4 lessons' objectives, along with 2 - 3 page reflection page.  See course materials for specific details. Due Friday, August 1, 2025. 

Description: This course covers fundamentals of Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW) and Oxyacetylene welding (OA) including safety procedures, equipment setup, and welding techniques. Those seeking SENCAP endorsement will also need to attend on June 17-18^th.

Location: Southeast Community College, SGTC, Lincoln
Cost: FREE
Host organization:  Central Community College and Nebraska Department of Education Career and Technical Education
Register: HERE
Optional graduate credit available: ALEC 893, Sec 306, Class 8493 (3 hours)  Instructions on registering. Course instructor: Eric Knoll.  Graduate course expectations found HERE. All assignments are due Friday, August 1, 2025. 

Description: This course equips students with the skills to create Building Information Models (BIM) using industry-standard software. Students will learn to navigate Revit’s parametric design tools, develop detailed building plans, and generate accurate documentation. The course emphasizes hands-on practice and instructional strategies to help effectively integrate Revit into classrooms. 

Location: Southeast Community College, ETC, Milford
Cost: FREE
Host organization:  Central Community College and Nebraska Department of Education Career and Technical Education
Register: HERE
Optional graduate credit available: ALEC 893, Sec 307, Class 8494 (3 hours)  Instructions on registering. Course instructor: Eric Knoll.  Graduate course expectations found HERE. All assignments are due Friday, August 1, 2025. 

Description: This course provides students with foundational knowledge in automotive light repair and maintenance, focusing on essential shop practices and safety. Students will gain hands-on experience with basic repair techniques, proper use of hand and power tools, and best practices for teaching these skills in a classroom setting. Those seeking SENCAP endorsement will also need to attend on June 17-18^th.

Location: Central Community College, Hastings Campus
Cost: $64.50 (Stipend available for those who qualify)
Host organization:  Central Community College and Nebraska Department of Education Career and Technical Education
Register: HERE
Optional graduate credit available: ALEC 893, Sec 301, Class 8488 (3 hours)  Instructions on registering. Course instructor: Eric Knoll.  Graduate course expectations found HERE. All assignments are due Friday, August 1, 2025. 

Description: This workshop is intended to have freedom and versatility within the welding lab. We will focus on the following welding processes: Gas Tungsten Arc, Shielded Metal Arc, Gas Metal Arc, and Oxy-Acetylene Welding and/or Brazing. We will cover the basic theory of each process and discuss their relevance to our FFA district competition. Most of our time will be spent in the welding lab. We want this to be flexible, so feel free to bring any questions! Protective welding gear will be provided, but you can bring your own if you prefer. Jeans and closed-toe shoes (preferably boots) are required for this workshop.

Location: Laramie County Community College, Cheyenne, WY
Cost: FREE (Lodging in LCCC Residence Halls free; breakfast and lunch provided)
Host organization:  Laramie County Community College, Cheyenne, WY
Register: HERE.

Description: Welding techniques in Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) and Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW); Learn and practice skills in pipe and Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW); Review equipment and set up of welding techniques and curriculum ideas to take back to the classroom; Attendees must bring their own welding helmet and PPE.

Location: PREEC-Scottsbluff, NE
Cost: $100
Host organization:  University of Nebraska-Lincoln, ALEC Department
Register: HERE  
Optional graduate credit available: ALEC 893, Sec 296, Class 8284 (3 hours)  Instructions on registering. Course instructor: Troy White.  Graduate course expectations found HERE. All assignments are due Friday, August 1, 2025. 

Description: This course will focus on teaching the fundamentals of parliamentary procedure by using interactive notebooks, and games to enhance student learning. Materials will focus on the motions you need to be able to correctly exhibit in the CCM and Parliamentary Procedure LDEs. Plenty of worksheets, PPTs and quizzes will be shared for you to use in your teaching. Registration includes a 12^th edition of Roberts Rules of Order Newly Revised, Roberts Rules of Order Newly Revised In Brief, 3^rd Edition, two copies of the Parliamentary Procedure Game, an interactive notebook, and lunch each day of the workshop.

Location: Southeast Community College, The Career Academy, Lincoln
Cost: FREE
Host organization:  Central Community College and Nebraska Department of Education Career and Technical Education
Register: HERE
Optional graduate credit available: ALEC 893, Sec 308, Class 8495 (3 hours)  Instructions on registering. Course instructor: Eric Knoll.  Graduate course expectations found HERE. All assignments are due Friday, August 1, 2025. 

Description: This course covers fundamentals of Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW) including safety procedures, equipment setup, and welding techniques.

Location: Southeast Community College, ETC, Milford
Cost: FREE
Host organization:  Central Community College and Nebraska Department of Education Career and Technical Education
Register: HERE
Optional graduate credit available: ALEC 893, Sec 309, Class 8496 (3 hours)  Instructions on registering. Course instructor: Eric Knoll.  Graduate course expectations found HERE. All assignments are due Friday, August 1, 2025.

Description: This course covers basic electrical and electronic principles and calculations.  The use of DVOM meters, the design of storage batteries, starting and charging systems used in automotive systems are covered.  Emphasis is placed on practical testing, diagnosing and repairing automotive electrical systems. Those seeking SENCAP endorsement will also need to attend on June 26-27^th.

Location: Southeast Community College, The Career Academy, Lincoln
Cost: FREE
Host organization:  Central Community College and Nebraska Department of Education Career and Technical Education
Register: HERE
Optional graduate credit available: ALEC 893, Sec 310, Class 8497 (3 hours)  Instructions on registering. Course instructor: Eric Knoll.  Graduate course expectations found HERE. All assignments are due Friday, August 1, 2025.

Description: This course provides students with hands-on training in basic precision machining, focusing on the operation of lathes, milling machines, and grinders. Students will develop skills in metrology, hand tool use, metal sawing, drilling and tapping, milling, turning, thread turning, and grinding. The course emphasizes safe machining practices and effective teaching strategies.

Location: PREEC-Scottsbluff, NE
Cost: $125, includes lunch each day of the workshop
Host organization:  University of Nebraska-Lincoln, ALEC Department
Register: HERE (This course is limited in the number of participants, so sign up early.)
Optional graduate credit available: ALEC 893, Sec 290, Class 8276 (3 hours)  Instructions on registering. Course instructor: Troy White.  Graduate course expectations found HERE. All assignments are due Friday, August 1, 2025. 

Description: This class will be nearly identical to the Briggs & Stratton Field School courses offered in previous years. Teachers will get the curriculum but not the textbook, clear carb, or spark tester. By offering this course as unaffiliated with Briggs & Stratton/Power Distributors, we are able to reduce the cost of the class. The class will include the entire Briggs syllabus as well as some additional training on their “antique L-Head engines. The complete curriculum from Brigg & Stratton, parts ID Photo slide deck, and instructional videos are included.

Location: Two institute locations to choose from, depending on your location - Concord at the Haskell Ag Lab OR Lincoln on UNL’s East Campus
Cost: $0 - stipend available ($1,050 Stipend for attending all five days + $250 Lesson Plan Implementation Bonus + $1,000 Supply Budget + Lunch and Snacks are provided)
Host organization:  University of Nebraska Lincoln-CASNR & the Nebraska Soybean Board
Register: HERE  (Applications due May 1)
Optional graduate credit available: ALEC 890, Sec 295, Class 8271 (3 hours)  Instructions on registering. Course contact: Stacie Turnbull.  Graduate course expectations:  Submit lessons plans developed as a part of the institute to Stacie Turnbull by Friday, August 1, 2025. .

Description: At the Summer Soybean Institute, SSI, you will obtain the tools to help your students become “Soybean Enthusiasts” through the exploration and inquiry of the Nebraska Soybean Story. Enjoy a mix of Content Experts from the University of Nebraska Lincoln-CASNR, the Nebraska Soybean Board, and local teacher leader collaboratives. We will learn together and apply systematic thinking about the phenomenon of Nebraska Soybeans that will lead to a gained understanding of the soybean as a system. Together we will connect your College and Career Ready standards to your classroom by developing units collaboratively with content experts and cross curricular teams that will give you the tools and support to share with your students the vast layers of the Nebraska Soybean Story.  Limited spaces available.  July 1, 2, 8, 9 & 10 at one of two locations - in Lincoln OR Haskell Ag Lab, Concord.

Location: NCTA, 404 E. 7th Street, Curtis, NE
Cost: $349 for two days; $549 for four days (includes supplies, housing, and all meals during the week)
Host organization:  Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture (NCTA) 
Register: HERE 
Optional graduate credit available: ALEC 890 (3 hours).  Instructions on registering. Course contact: Stacie Turnbull.  Graduate course expectations found HERE. All assignments are due Friday, August 1, 2025.
Graduate course credit for: Ag Mechanics (ALEC 890, Sec 294, Class 8283) OR Plant Systems (ALEC 890, Sec 293, Class 8282) in the first two days; Animal Systems (ALEC 890, Sec 292, Class 8270) OR Student Leadership and Support (ALEC 890, Sec 307, Class TBA) for the final two days. 

Description: 2025 Ag Teachers Bootcamp

Power Structural and Technical Systems: Dan Stehlik, Instructor; July 7 - 8, 2025 

• GMAW and SMAW welding, steel and aluminum
  • Some flexibility depending on needs or desires of the class.  We will use multi-process GMAW welders and Lincoln arc welders.  We have both Lincoln and Miller GMAW machines available to use according to your classroom or nearest dealership. We will also run a few beads on both Aluminum and Steel on the Miller Continuum welders.  Some instruction ideas will be presented from my Kansas Ideas Exchange winning division entries 15 years ago. Bring your own PPE if you have it, please.
• Electrical Circuits and Wiring with CDE tips and Multi-meters
  • A couple of simple AC electric circuits will be assembled with basic continuity checks using multimeters.  Electric Code guidelines will be shared applied to these circuits.  Some suggestions that might be helpful toward the state CDE wiring activity will be provided. Part of the  time will be spent describing DC components and their purposes. A demonstration of our Best of Show (Aurora) Ag Mech Club Farm Toy Display Board will be provided as a fun application of the use of mechanical skills. 
• Oxy-Acetylene and TIG welding
  • Oxy-Acetylene and TIG Welding are very similar skills with one using gas heat and the other using electrical heat.  Both require patience.  We will be TIG welding steel using DC TIG with the multi-purpose machines. Bring your own PPE if you have it, or some may be provided.
• Hydraulics and Ag Mechanics Display Boards
  • We included hydraulics with the 2025 state Ag Mechanics CDE.  Hydraulics and Pneumatics are found in many industrial, commercial, and agricultural applications (even wind towers to adjust the pitch of the blades) this is a very relevant subject to continuously include in mechanics instruction.  We will disassemble/reassemble cylinders and pumps.  Many of the principles also can be applied to sprayers and plumbing or irrigation.

Plant Systems: July 7 - 8, 2025 

• Precision Agriculture – Dr. Brad Ramsdale, Instructor
  • This workshop will provide instructors with the fundamentals of precision or digital agriculture. Topics will include moisture sensors, GPS technology and data analysis.
• Agronomy CDE Tips and Tricks – Dr. Brad Ramsdale, Instructor
  • Interested in taking your agronomy team to the next level? Learn the tips and tricks of preparing a winning agronomy team from a national champion coach.
• Range Management – Monty Larsen, instructor
  • Ignite your curriculum and equip your students with essential knowledge and skills in the dynamic field of Range Science!  Even if you didn’t have “dynamic” and “Range Science” on your Bingo card, plan to attend Where the Grass is Greener: A Range Science Curriculum Workshop designed specifically for inexperienced agricultural educators seeking to integrate engaging and relevant range management principles into their existing plant science curriculum. Through a blend of interactive lectures, hands-on plant identification, and collaborative activities, you will gain a comprehensive understanding of rangeland ecosystems, their importance, and sustainable management practices as well as taking home classroom-ready activities and resources to facilitate range management in your classroom. 
• Biotechnology in Agriculture – Dr. Stacie Turnbull, instructor
  • Join us for an interactive workshop on Biotechnology in Agriculture, where science meets sustainability to shape the future of farming. This workshop will introduce agricultural biotechnology and its applications, discuss the facts, myths, and benefits of Genetically modified organisms (GMOs), the role of biotechnology in sustainable agriculture, and introduce case studies of successful biotech adoption in farming.  Participants will walk away with hands on labs to introduce students to biotechnology. Come explore the science that's feeding the future! 

Animal Systems:  July 9 - 10, 2025 

• Equine Management, Nutrition and Reproduction – Joanna Hergenreder, instructor
  • This session will incorporate topics such as coat color genetics, conformation evaluation, nutritional needs, health management, and reproduction. Teaching tools, resources, and innovative strategies will be covered and provided.
• Ruminant Nutrition – Alan Taylor, instructor
  • This session will cover the principles of feeding, digestive processes, nutrient requirements and how to formulate balanced diets.
• Emergency Recognition and Response for our Animals – Dr. Crystal Rhine, DVM, instructor
  • In this course, we will discuss how to recognize emergency situations in our livestock and companion animals, and how we can respond when those situations happen.  We will also discuss CPR for companion animals, what to stock in an emergency kit for when you are out working cattle/horses, and common emergency situations of note, including basic first aid response. 
• Equine Health Practices – Judy Bowmaster-Cole, LVT, instructor
  • This short course will be an overview of equine health-related topics. Topics covered will include unique equine anatomy and physiology; body condition scoring and importance for management; feeding considerations, including ID of forages, grains and other concentrates; equine vaccination protocol and related diseases; simple nursing skills, TPRs and bandaging; and equine emergencies

Leadership/Student Success:  July 9 - 10, 2025 

• Creating an Environment for Student Success – Jessica Rodman, instructor
  • Creating an environment conducive to student success involves establishing a positive, inclusive, and supportive learning atmosphere where students feel safe, engaged, and valued. This can be achieved through various strategies, including building strong relationships, promoting collaboration, and fostering a growth mindset. Learn how to implement these strategies into your classroom.
• Coaching an Effective Team; Fundraising Tips and Tricks – Joanna Hergenreder, instructor
  • This session will incorporate overall considerations for coaches, activities to develop a coaching philosophy, teaching, communication, motivation, and building a team that students will commit to! We will introduce innovative approaches to fundraising with a special inclusion of such for clubs and teams, while addressing fundraising pitfalls and budgeting. 
• Starting a Shotgun Sports Team – Alan Taylor, instructor
  • One of the faster growing sports being added in high schools is a shooting sports team. This workshop starts out on the shooting range practicing your skills with a shotgun (provided). We then discuss how to start and manage a shooting sports team in your program
• Assisting Students with Academic Challenges – Jessica Rodman, instructor
  • This workshop will focus on assisting students with academic challenges by providing practical strategies and resources to overcome obstacles and improve academic performance. We will cover topics like study skills, time management, organization, and addressing test anxiety. The goal is to empower you as an instructor to help your students develop effective learning habits and build confidence in their abilities. 

Location: PREEC-Scottsbluff, NE
Cost: $150, includes lunch each day of the workshop & one seat license for Lightburn
Host organization:  University of Nebraska-Lincoln, ALEC Department
Register: HERE 
Optional graduate credit available: ALEC 893, Sec 295, Class 8280 (3 hours)  Instructions on registering. Course instructor: Troy White.  Graduate course expectations found HERE. All assignments are due Friday, August 1, 2025. 

Description: We will focus primarily in 2-D design on plasma and laser printers with the majority of the time devoted to designing in Open source or reduced-cost programs like Inkscape, Light Burn, and Torchmate CAD. 3-D design will focus on Tinker CAD, a fun, free, and easy way to teach and learn the basics of 3-D design. This course is intended for those just starting on or thinking about starting the design journey.

Location: Nebraska Department of Education building, Lincoln, NE 
Cost: $0 (Stipend available for travel expenses)
Host organization:  Nebraska Department of Education, Career and Technical Education
Register: JumpStart Registration 2025  Registration deadline is July 7, 2025 or when all 30 seats are filled.
Optional graduate credit available: ALEC 896, Sec 603, Class 2341  (3 hours)  Instructions on registering. Course instructor: Eric Knoll.  Graduate course requirements: Attend all 32 hours of instruction and complete any in class assignments and readings.

Description: JumpStart is a four-day workshop designed for incoming CTE teachers who are teaching under a Career Education Teaching Permit, or, CTE teachers involved in the Transitional Certification Program through the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and University of Nebraska-Kearney. This four-day training is designed to help these incoming teachers that have little or no experience in the classroom. This workshop will focus on lesson planning, classroom management, best practices in CTE teaching strategies, advocating for CTE programming, and much more. Eric Knoll, UNL Associate Professor of Practice facilitates the workshop along with the Nebraska Department of Education career field specialists. Upon selection, teachers will receive a contract for a stipend to assist with expenses incurred. No snacks or meals will be provided. Time will be set aside for lunch. Maximum of 30 participants. Registration deadline is July 7, 2025 or when all seats are filled, whichever comes first.

Location: PREEC-Scottsbluff, NE
Cost: $125, includes lunch each day of the workshop 
Host organization:  University of Nebraska-Lincoln, ALEC Department
Register: HERE
Optional graduate credit available: ALEC 893, Sec 294, Class 8279 (3 hours)  Instructions on registering. Course instructor: Troy White.  Graduate course expectations found HERE. All assignments are due Friday, August 1, 2025. 

Description: This course will focus on all things safety. We will be using the MN CTE Safety curriculum to cover the safe and efficient usage of woods and metal power tools. Teachers will leave with the complete safety manual (over 300 pages), teacher keys, and a simple project to help teach these safety skills.

Location: PREEC-Scottsbluff, NE
Cost: FREE (Includes hotel and meal.  Travel stipends available.  $600 stipend for completing the workshop and $600 in equipment)
Host organization:  University of Nebraska-Lincoln, ALEC Department
Register: HERE (This course is limited in the number of participants, so sign up early.)
Optional graduate credit available: ALEC 893, Sec 292, Class 8277 (3 hours)  Instructions on registering. Course instructor: Troy White.  Graduate course expectations found HERE. All assignments are due Friday, August 1, 2025. 

Description: Year one of a two-year workshop. This workshop will focus on Arduinos, Barn/Greenhouse Automation.  We will cover Arduino micro-controllers, basic circuits, basic CAD, the engineering process, and designing with Laser, and 3-D printers for ag applications, and fun physics applications using the Arduino. Teachers will receive a $600 stipend for completing the workshop and over $600 in equipment to take back to their schools and have access to check out 3-D printers for their students to use. 

Location: PREEC-Scottsbluff, NE
Cost: FREE (Includes hotel and meal.  Travel stipends available.  $600 stipend for attending, a CNC table to take home, and additional training)
Host organization:  University of Nebraska-Lincoln, ALEC Department
Register: HERE.
Optional graduate credit available: ALEC 893, Sec 293, Class 8278 (3 hours)  Instructions on registering. Course instructor: Troy White.  Graduate course expectations found HERE. All assignments are due Friday, August 1, 2025. 

Description: Year 2 of the Automation workshop for those who completed Y1 last year and will focus on Stepper Motor Controls. This workshop will focus on the operation of CNC using Arduino and teachers will build a 2x2 open source CNC table. Teachers will receive a $600 stipend for attending, a CNC table to take home, and additional training on the Arduino, CAD design, and other cool applications for their Y1 equipment. Travel stipends are available and hotels and food are covered just like last year.

PREREQ: Completed & taught Automation Year 1

Location: West Central Research, Extension and Education Center (WCREEC), North Platte
Cost: TBA
Host organization:  West Central Research, Extension and Education Center 
Register: TBA

Location: various locations nationwide
Cost: varies
Host organization:  varies
Register: HERE  (Registration closes May 1)
Optional graduate credit available: ALEC 890, 
       - CASE: Animal Science - Sec 301, Class 8341
       - CASE: Ag Equipment Maintenance and Technology - Sec 302, Class 8346
       - CASE: Food Science - Sec 303, Class 8342
       - CASE: Natural Resources and Ecology - Sec 304, Class 8343
       - CASE: Plant Science - Sec 306, Class 8345

Instructions on registering. Course instructor: Monty Larsen.  Graduate course requirements: Email completed CASE Certification certificate to Monty Larsen by Friday, August 1, 2025.

CASE Institutes prepare teachers to implement full-year CASE courses in their classroom. Institutes provide teachers the content and skills needed to use CASE curricula in their classroom. CASE Institutes range from five to eight days in a hybrid, in-person, or virtual format. CASE incorporates science, mathematics, reading, and writing components into the context of agriculture. Students use this course's introductory skills and knowledge throughout the CASE curriculum. More information at Curriculum for Agricultural Science Education (CASE) Institutes opportunities.

https://www.case4learning.org/