Empowering Columbus students to explore careers in agriculture, food systems, and environmental science through hands-on experiences at our urban farm in Linden.
Our Career Training Programs give middle and high school students real-world experience in one of the fastest-growing sectors of the economy: sustainable agriculture and food systems. Through paid internships, mentorship, and hands-on learning at our urban farm, students discover career possibilities they may never have known existed.
Whether you're curious about farming, interested in environmental science, exploring business opportunities, or just want to gain valuable work experience, our programs provide a supportive environment where you can learn, grow, and earn while discovering potential career paths.
Many students in Columbus have limited exposure to agriculture and food production careers, even though these industries are experiencing tremendous growth. Urban farming, sustainable food systems, agricultural technology, and environmental science represent exciting, well-paying career opportunities for the next generation.
Our programs bridge this gap by giving students hands-on experiences that build real skills, create professional connections, and open doors to future opportunities. You'll gain work experience that looks great on college applications and resumes while earning money and learning about careers you can actually pursue.
We offer multiple ways for students to gain agricultural experience and explore career possibilities, from after-school programs to summer employment.
High school students work alongside our farm team to learn crop production, greenhouse management, and sustainable farming practices. You'll plant, maintain, and harvest crops while gaining practical agricultural skills and professional work experience. This paid internship runs during summer and provides the foundation for understanding modern farming careers.
Who: High school students (ages 15-18)
When: Summer program (8-10 weeks)
Compensation: Paid position with weekly hours
Students interested in teaching, communication, or community work help deliver educational programs to younger students. You'll assist with school garden programs, help run farm tours, support community events, and learn about agricultural education careers. This track is perfect if you enjoy working with people and want to explore education or nonprofit career paths.
Who: High school students (ages 15-18)
When: Summer program (8-10 weeks)
Compensation: Paid position with weekly hours
Middle and high school students meet weekly during the school year to explore agricultural topics through hands-on projects. Learn about plant science, sustainable growing, food systems, and agricultural careers while working on the farm and in our greenhouse. This program is free and provides a low-commitment way to explore your interest in agriculture.
Who: Middle & high school students
When: School year (weekly meetings)
Compensation: Free program with refreshments
Older high school students serious about pursuing agriculture, environmental science, or food systems in college receive intensive mentorship and career guidance. Work closely with our team on advanced projects, visit agricultural businesses and universities, and build a portfolio that strengthens college applications. Includes assistance with scholarship applications and college essays.
Who: High school juniors & seniors
When: Year-round individualized schedule
Compensation: Paid opportunities available
Our training programs provide comprehensive skill development across multiple areas:
We support you every step of the way as you build your agricultural career:
Submit your application and meet with our team to discuss your goals, interests, and the best training path for you.
Engage in hands-on training, receive mentorship from experienced professionals, and build your skills through real farm work.
Receive job placement support, industry connections, and ongoing guidance as you transition into your agricultural career.
Our approach to career training emphasizes real experience, meaningful work, and comprehensive support:
You're not just observing – you're doing the actual work of running an urban farm. From planting seeds to managing greenhouses to harvesting crops, you gain authentic experience that employers value.
Work directly with our experienced farm managers and agricultural educators who provide personalized guidance, answer questions, and share the wisdom they've gained through years in the field.
We prioritize creating opportunities for Linden residents and others from underserved communities who face barriers to employment. We believe in investing in our neighbors and building economic opportunity locally.
Beyond technical skills, we help with resume building, interview preparation, professional networking, and job placement assistance. We're invested in your long-term career success.
Participants have opportunities to earn recognized certifications in areas like organic growing practices, food safety, and agricultural education – credentials that strengthen your resume.
Participating in our Career Training Programs opens doors for students. Our alumni have gone on to:
Even students who ultimately pursue non-agricultural careers benefit tremendously from the work ethic, responsibility, problem-solving skills, and professional experience gained through our programs.
Our Career Training Programs welcome students from all Columbus-area schools who are curious about agriculture and willing to work hard. You're a great fit if you:
No farming experience required! Just bring curiosity, enthusiasm, and willingness to learn. We especially encourage students from Linden and surrounding neighborhoods to apply.
Ready to explore agricultural careers? Here's how students can join our programs:
Students or parents can contact us to learn more about available programs. We accept applications for summer internships starting in early spring, and after-school programs accept new members throughout the school year.
Complete a simple application form sharing your interests and goals. For paid positions, we'll need a work permit (we can help you get one!) and parent/guardian permission.
Visit our urban farm with your parent or guardian to meet the team, see where you'd be working, and ask any questions about the program.
Once accepted, you'll receive your schedule and begin gaining hands-on experience in urban agriculture!
Important Dates:
Help your student explore agricultural careers while gaining valuable work experience and earning money. Applications for summer programs open in March!