Southern Virginia, once rich with textile mills and tobacco fields, is finding new ways to create economic opportunity for its citizens. During this seminar, our visits were diverse. From the cutting-edge technology of the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR) to a successful first-generation farmer to a small family farm working to feed its growing community of consumers, we covered a lot of ground.
IALR in Danville is undoubtedly a beacon of hope for those looking to hone skills or learn new ones. From robotics to welding to specialized training for the Navy, and even hydroponics and greenhouses, this campus houses a ton of knowledge and the ability to train a new workforce for whatever may come next for the region. Of particular interest to me is the Go-Tec program. Go-Tec exposes middle school students to a diverse career field and works to capture their interests early in things like robotics or hydroponics, along with a multitude of others. It works to keep them engaged to create a much younger workforce pipeline, giving them key skills to jump start their future careers or further education.
It was a pleasure to meet with Robert Mills, a first-generation farmer who has beaten many odds to make his operation successful and to be a strong voice for agriculture. Robert is a great example of taking risks, growing diverse crops, and taking the time to talk to people about agricultural life.
We also visited Gregory Family Farms, a farm direct livestock operation. I took away some great ideas for our own operation from this visit about contracts, and how beneficial it is to have your own devoted customers be your best marketing tactic. It’s clear their consumers love their product, their process and their story. I’m always a fan of folks who show the great stories we face in our fields every day, but sometimes the struggles make the best chapters.
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