NCI Summer Ag Academy

June 22-26, 2026, Fargo, ND

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Join us for our 4th Summer Ag Academy

Hosted by the Northern Crops Institute

The NCI Summer Ag Academy is a free, hands-on career exploration experience for high school students currently in grades 9–11 (grades 10–12 in the 2026–27 school year) who want to discover the exciting world of food science, animal science, international trade, and ag technology.

Hosted by the Northern Crops Institute on the North Dakota State University campus in Fargo, ND, this five-day program runs June 22–26, 2026, and offers students the chance to learn from industry pros, explore world-class facilities, and connect with others who share a passion for feeding the world. No prior ag experience is needed, just curiosity and enthusiasm! Housing, meals, and on-site transportation are covered provided by the sponsors of the program.

Participants will choose one of our track options to a be a part of during the entire academy.

Choose your track now!

Registration Opens March 16, 2026

Food Science Track

Registration Opens March 16, 2026

Ever wonder how the food products you eat are developed and end up on the grocery store shelves? This track will provide you hands-on experience with food product development in our NCI labs. Come live the life of a food scientist! Learn about the creative solutions that will be needed to feed the world, and the part you can play in that future.

Animal Science Track

Registration Opens March 16, 2026

Animal agriculture plays a significant role in the region’s economy. What do livestock eat? In addition to growing food for humans, farmers in our region grow food for livestock too! In fact, innovations in feeding technology have allowed agriculturists to efficiently feed by-products of ethanol and food production to animals to reduce waste. This pathway will give you hands-on opportunities in the livestock industry, with specific attention given to the processes and ingredients used to feed the livestock of today and tomorrow.

International Trade Track

Registration Opens March 16, 2026

Soybeans from the Dakotas in China? Montana wheat in Italy? Minnesota corn in the Philippines? You bet! This track dives into the intriguing world of international trade. Learn how agricultural commodities travel to global destinations. Examine how decisions and events in other parts of the world affect U.S. farmers and our economy. International trade and policy provides a complex game to play!

Ag Technology Track

Registration Opens March 16, 2026

Curious about how drones, sensors, robotics, and data are transforming agriculture? Step into the fast-paced world where agriculture meets cutting-edge technology! In this track, you’ll explore how modern tools help farmers grow more food with fewer resources—improving efficiency, sustainability, and decision‑making. Get hands-on experience and see how technology is reshaping agriculture today, and imagine where you could take it tomorrow. Come experience the future of agriculture!

2025 SUMMER AG ACADEMY

ENJOY A RECAP OF LAST YEAR'S SUMMER AG ACADEMY!

SUMMER AG ACADEMY TESTIMONIALS

SEE WHAT PAST PARTICIPANTS HAVE TO SAY!

“Every year I came in made new friends and I always had fun no matter what I was doing.”

“It was an experience that really helped change my outlook on my on my job I highly enjoyed it and want to do it again”

“I really enjoyed my time here and I would go again. It was really informative and something all kids should be able to go to.”

“It was amazing! I had so much fun meeting new people and learning about new careers I’ve never had to think about before! It was very beneficial and I recommend :)”