USDA Trains Vets for Jobs in Ag

USDA and the Department of Defense have introduced enhanced services to veterans interested in pursuing a career in agriculture.

In a conversation with Brownfield Ag News, USDA Deputy Secretary Krysta Harden said the work will include career training for men and women transitioning out of the military.

The Department of Labor released data in 2010 that revealed that more than 20% of young veterans were unemployed. More recent data shows that 45% of armed service members are from rural America, which makes this USDA/DOD partnership a natural in developing economic opportunities for veterans.

The USDA has offered opportunities to veterans for years, including a microloans program to buy farmland and equipment. Since 2009, the program has awarded grants to 6,400 vets totaling $438 million.

The enhanced services include training grants to help those seeking skills to become farmers and ranchers. S