Extension Agent
Extension agents are employed by land-grant universities and serve the citizens of that state by serving as an expert or teacher on a topic relating to economics, community development, agriculture, family, animal production, diet and nutrition. They provide learning experiences that empower communities to improve their lives on critical issues. They are seen as experts and may be required to speak at industry events on a wide variety of topics.
What Responsibilities Will I Have?
- Work with local, regional and state teams to identify issues in the interest area you work in
- Develop and execute educational programs about your interest area for the community
- Provide learning experiences that will empower people to improve their lives
- Conduct research if the position is in an academic setting
- Teach formal courses to students enrolled at the land-grant university
- Investigate, develop and refine value-added content to a variety of delivery platforms
- Create and utilize assessments to evaluate the impact of the programming
- Answer questions of local/state residents regarding your field of expertise
- Speak at industry events or at local civic organization meetings
- Develop volunteer networks to sustain programs
- Work with local 4-H clubs by leading or teaching programming
- Maintain a high level of visibility and facilitate communications with a wide range of clientele
Recommended High School Courses:
- agricultural education
- agricultural mechanics
- animal science
- family and consumer sciences
- public speaking
- writing
- plant science
- personal finance
- business
Education/Training Required:
This can vary depending on the level of role as well as your area of expertise. Primarily, a bachelor’s or master’s degree is required in either your subject area or agricultural and extension education. Those doing research and teaching at the university level may have a doctorate.
