Farm Ops Opens Next Round of Veteran Learning Cohort Workshops

The Farm Ops project continued its efforts to support veterans interested in agriculture during the COVID-19 pandemic. To provide more accessible learning opportunities, the project expanded its virtual workshop offerings to include Veteran Learning Cohorts.

These cohorts brought together groups of veterans with a shared interest in agriculture, allowing them to progress through educational workshops as a community. Military veterans who were currently enrolled in or eligible for enrollment at a New York or New Jersey VA facility were encouraged to participate. The initiative aimed to create a supportive and engaging learning environment tailored to the unique experiences and aspirations of veterans transitioning into agriculture.

The workshops combined self-paced learning with structured group discussions, fostering collaboration and peer-to-peer support. Participants had the opportunity to share experiences, exchange ideas, and explore different farming practices while building meaningful connections with others who had similar interests and goals. By engaging with their cohort, veterans were introduced to new career paths, innovative techniques, and valuable insights from both instructors and fellow participants.

After registering, participants received access to a variety of educational materials designed to enhance their understanding of agricultural practices. These resources helped them develop practical skills while also encouraging critical thinking and problem-solving in real-world farming scenarios.

Through these expanded virtual workshops, Farm Ops strengthened its commitment to supporting veterans in agriculture. By providing education, fostering collaboration, and encouraging long-term connections, the program helped empower veterans to explore new opportunities and build a future in farming.

Kacey Deamer

Kacey is the Communications Manager for the Cornell Small Farms Program. In this role, she manages all storytelling and outreach across the program’s website, social media, e-newsletter, magazine and more. Kacey has worked in communications and journalism for more than a decade, with a primary focus on science and sustainability.