Workforce Development

"The larger our network grows, the more opportunities students have," he said. "We’re one of the biggest talent pools in Missoula that’s largely untapped. The more bridges we can build in community – that will be a tide that raises all ships."

Taking students beyond their classroom’s walls and helping them explore leading agricultural businesses across the country is the goal of the Ag Explorer Virtual Field Trips.

A new report from Georgetown University found there are now about 13 million jobs nationwide that require only a high school diploma and pay at least $35,000 annually, a higher wage than most entry-level service roles. Three-quarters of them, however, belong to men.

The development and deployment of Innovation and Invention Curriculum to students preK-12 in schools across the nation.

The economy of the future will require schools to partner with businesses and provide better career information to youths so they are prepared for whatever their futures may hold. It will demand sustained investment in apprenticeships and job-training programs, as well as forming direct connections between education and job training.

"With millions of U.S. tech jobs out there," Interapt Founder Mr. Gopal said, "we could help transform eastern Kentucky. Well, hey — Middle America."