AgroTek Innovation is a week-long program offered by UVM College of Agriculture and Life Science and Extension/4-H. Youth rising into grades 8-12, especially those from groups underrepresented in agriculture and science, spend a week on campus June 23-29. Each academy of up to 12 youth will study with University researchers, learn about science communication, and create outreach projects about what they learn. The three academy topics are Culturing Cells for Healthier Soils; Shifting the Waste-to-Value Paradigm; and Using Virtual Reality for More Precise Agriculture.
Two mentors per academy, with other program staff, are responsible for youth during the academic/day-time portions of this innovative agricultural science program.
Responsibilities:
- Work as part of a team to ensure youth safety and to support engagement with the program.
- Build appropriate, supportive relationships with and between youth participants and other staff by discussing shared interests, challenges, educational trajectory, etc.
- During classes, labs, and field trips, be an attentive “super student” role model, circulate among the group during independent work, and keep kids engaged during downtime.
- Engage with participants during meals, free time and while en route to program locations, building a sense of belonging and community.
- Foster a sense of direction to academic content and support youth in creating final projects.
- Successfully complete a risk management background check and 4-H youth protection training prior to event.
Required qualifications:
- Previous experience working with youth
- Currently enrolled college student or professional over 18 years old
Desired qualifications:
- Summer camp experience
- A specific interest or expertise in soil microbiology, sustainable cropping systems, circular design, design thinking, precision agriculture, or coding in Unity
Schedule and Compensation:
Staff are “on duty” with youth from approximately 8:30am-4:30pm, Sunday 6/23 through Saturday 6/29, including travel to and from program locations, class/lab sessions and field trips. Compensation includes a $750 stipend and lunch, optional dinner, and opportunities to join evening activities.
To apply, send a short cover letter and your resume to Liz Kenton ([email protected]).