Ag Ed & STS Professional Development

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

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

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, 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 TBA, Class TBA (3 hours)  Instructions on registering. Course instructor: Eric Knoll.  Graduate course requirements TBA 

In this workshop, we will design and build a speaker box and its accessories. Participants will utilize solid modeling software, 3D printers, and a CNC Mill to manufacture the speaker box and assemble all components. No prior manufacturing experience is necessary. Additionally, one day will be dedicated to a tour of local manufacturing companies.

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 TBA, Class TBA (3 hours)  Instructions on registering. Course instructor: Eric Knoll.  Graduate course requirements TBA 

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 TBA, Class TBA (3 hours)  Instructions on registering. Course instructor: Eric Knoll.  Graduate course requirements TBA

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 TBA, Class TBA (3 hours)  Instructions on registering. Course instructor: Eric Knoll.  Graduate course requirements TBA 

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 TBA, Class TBA (3 hours)  Instructions on registering. Course instructor: Eric Knoll.  Graduate course requirements TBA 

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)
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 requirements TBA 

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 TBA, Class TBA (3 hours)  Instructions on registering. Course instructor: Eric Knoll.  Graduate course requirements TBA 

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 TBA, Class TBA (3 hours)  Instructions on registering. Course instructor: Eric Knoll.  Graduate course requirements TBA 

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

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.

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 requirements TBA 

• 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 TBA, Class TBA (3 hours)  Instructions on registering. Course instructor: Eric Knoll.  Graduate course requirements TBA 

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 TBA, Class TBA (3 hours)  Instructions on registering. Course instructor: Eric Knoll.  Graduate course requirements TBA 

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 TBA, Class TBA (3 hours)  Instructions on registering. Course instructor: Eric Knoll.  Graduate course requirements TBA 

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 TBA, Class TBA (3 hours)  Instructions on registering. Course instructor: Eric Knoll.  Graduate course requirements TBA 

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: 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 requirements TBA 

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: Lakeview High School, Columbus, NE 
Cost: $2,350 (housing not included)
Host organization:  University of Nebraska-Lincoln, ALEC Department
Register: HERE  (Registration closes May 1)
Optional graduate credit available: ALEC 890, Sec 291, Class 8269 (3 hours)  Instructions on registering. Course instructor: Monty Larsen.  Graduate course requirements TBA 

AFNR introduces students to the range of agricultural opportunities and the personal plan of study they may pursue. 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 AFNR at UNL - Curriculum for Agricultural Science Education.

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 TBA, Class TBA (3 hours)  Instructions on registering. Course instructor: Eric Knoll.  Graduate course requirements TBA 

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 TBA, Class TBA (3 hours)  Instructions on registering. Course instructor: Eric Knoll.  Graduate course requirements TBA 

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 TBA, Class TBA (3 hours)  Instructions on registering. Course instructor: Eric Knoll.  Graduate course requirements TBA 

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 requirements TBA 

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 instructor: Matt Kreifels.  Graduate course requirements TBA 

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, Curtis, NE
Cost: TBA
Host organization:  Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture (NCTA) 
Register: TBA 
Optional graduate credit available: ALEC 890, Sec TBA, Class TBA (3 hours).  Instructions on registering. Course contact: Stacie Turnbull.  Graduate course requirements TBA. Graduate course credit for: Power, Structure, Tech Systems OR Plant Systems in the first two days; Animal Systems OR Student Leadership and Support for the final two days. 

Specific workshop topics include: GMAW & SMAW welding steel and aluminum, O-A & Tig welding, range management, electrical circuits and wiring, agronomy CDE, biotechnology, precision agriculture, enquire management, nutrition and reproduction, Animal CPR, wound and general care, ruminant nutrition, equine health practices, assessing students with academic challenges, coaching an effective team, creating an environment for student success, and starting a shotgun sports team.

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 requirements TBA 

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: TBA, Lincoln, NE 
Cost: $0
Host organization:  Nebraska Department of Education, Career and Technical Education
Register: TBA - look for link mid-April
Optional graduate credit available: ALEC 896, Sec 603, Class 2341  (3 hours)  Instructions on registering. Course instructor: Eric Knoll.  Graduate course requirements TBA 

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. JumpStart provides information and hands-on training for teaching strategies, lesson planning and assessment, classroom management, and legal issues, as well as other topics of need.

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 requirements TBA 

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 requirements TBA 

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 requirements TBA 

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 and Extension Center (WCREC), North Platte
Cost: FREE 
Host organization:  West Central Research and Extension 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: Animal Science - Sec 305, Class 8344
       - CASE: Plant Science - Sec 306, Class 8345

Instructions on registering. Course instructor: Monty Larsen.  Graduate course requirements TBA 

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/