The University of Nebraska-Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture (NCTA) believes that if students become familiar with entrepreneurial concepts they can help their rural communities maintain and once again become economically viable.
Instead of just preparing students for positions in Nebraska agriculture, NCTA is now preparing students to develop new small businesses. NCTA also wants to help young people return to their hometowns by partnering young people with current businesses owners.
Business owners enjoy their rural lifestyle, but often times they don’t see a way for their business to continue. NCTA hopes to provide that avenue to help the business not only continue, but successfully transition to new ownership.
If NCTA graduates return to their rural communities, establish families and become entrepreneurial leaders, this allows them the opportunity to become vital members of their communities resulting in a huge impact on rural sustainability.
Informational brochure concerning the NCTA Business Builders Program is available by clicking here.
Rural Community Career Development
A coalition between the University, communities and high schools is necessary for a plan of action to be successful in saving the small communities in Nebraska.
The process begins with a college level course delivered to high school juniors and seniors. The course helps students investigate what their career aspirations are and what career options are available in their community. Then, with the help of a teacher and an economic development specialist, the student identifies a mentor who will help them develop a career path that will bring them back to their home community after college.
Business and agriculture enterprise owners and professionals within your community need to think about their succession and retirement plans. Is there a place for a young person in your business?
The career plans developed between community business owners and high school junior and seniors will include higher education requirements, business and professional plans, financing and experiential learning through summer internships and employment in your county.
Informational brochure concerning the NCTA Rural Community Career Develpment Program is available by clicking here.
