Many Marylanders — especially our youth — may not realize how agriculture is part of their daily life. The grain grown across the state helps feed poultry, support local businesses, and sustain a wide network of jobs that keep rural communities strong. That’s why the partnership between Junior Achievement of the Eastern Shore and the Maryland Grain Producers Utilization Board (MGPUB) matters so much.
“The Maryland Grain Producers Utilization Board has partnered with Junior Achievement for the past five years, supporting their Inspire and Storefront programs with a financial contribution and by setting up an educational exhibit for the youth,” says Jennifer Gannon, Director of Programs and Public Relations for the Maryland Grain Producers Utilization Board.
Maryland Grain Producers support a big part of JA Inspire, where middle school students explore career paths and meet professionals from industries that shape the Eastern Shore. The Board is also the presenting sponsor of the JA Inspire event and has contributed to the agriculture storefront in Salisbury. That investment helps ensure agriculture has a visible, meaningful place in the program.
At the event, the organization joins other agricultural partners to explain how local grain production connects directly to the poultry industry. “The Maryland Grain Producers Utilization Board, along with several other grain businesses like Perdue and Mountaire, are present with exhibits showcasing the relationship between the grains grown on the Eastern Shore and the poultry industry,” Jennifer explains.
The agriculture storefront gives students a broader picture of agriculture. Through guided conversations and hands-on exhibits, students learn that agriculture also depends on trucking, insurance, finance, communications, animal health, research and education. “For example, Mountaire Farms has a mock chicken processing line that students can participate in, giving them a hands-on way to learn,” she adds. “We hope it opens the door for them to become involved in the industry, whether that is through youth programs like 4-H and FFA or in the future as a career.”
That broader perspective can be eye-opening. Students are often surprised by the size and reach of the field. “The students are always amazed at the vastness of the industry and how it impacts their daily life whether that be through their food, clothing or everyday household products,” Jennifer says.
Junior Achievement provides students with a workbook before the Inspire event, giving them background information and guided questions to use when speaking with exhibitors. That structure helps students have more meaningful conversations.
“Even if the students do not choose to take a career in agriculture in the future, hopefully events like this can educate them on the importance of the industry in the Mid-Atlantic region and they will be lifelong supporters,” Jennifer explains.
That goal reflects what makes this partnership so valuable. By supporting JA Inspire and the agriculture storefront, Maryland Grain Producers is helping young people see local agriculture with fresh eyes. It is showing them that grain farming is tied to life across the Eastern Shore and the entire state.
Hungry for more? Read about some 4Hers. Learn more about another youth ag opportunity.