What is the Industry Insights program?

The Industry Insights program connects Ferguson College students with agricultural businesses across Oklahoma, providing firsthand exposure to industry operations and career opportunities.

What businesses have been included in past tours?

Past tours have included Koch Industries, Tyson Foods, Port of Catoosa, Cargill, and the Oklahoma State Capitol.

What are the future plans for the program?

The program aims to expand by offering tours in different regions throughout Oklahoma and surrounding states, exposing students to various products and services and exploring new career paths.

December 19, 2025

Oklahoma State University Launches Industry Insights Program

News Summary

The Ferguson College of Agriculture at Oklahoma State University has introduced the Industry Insights program, bridging classroom education with real-world agricultural experiences. This initiative allows students to visit local agricultural businesses, enhancing their understanding and career opportunities in the industry. Recent tours included stops at Woodward Livestock Auction and Buffalo Feeders, where students connected their studies to actual market operations. The program aims to foster professional growth and partnerships within Oklahoma’s agricultural sector, with future expansions planned for broader regional engagement.

Oklahoma city, OK – The Ferguson College of Agriculture at Oklahoma State University has recently launched the Industry Insights program, a groundbreaking initiative designed to provide students with direct exposure to the agricultural industry within Oklahoma. This program bridges classroom learning with practical experiences, allowing students to engage with various agricultural businesses, explore diverse career paths, and enhance their understanding of the sector’s intricacies.

This program not only reflects the Ferguson College’s commitment to experiential education but also underscores the vital role the agricultural sector plays within Oklahoma’s economy. With a focus on connecting students to businesses that actively recruit across disciplines, the Industry Insights program aims to foster educational and professional growth among students in the region.

Program Overview

The Industry Insights program is designed to give students opportunities to visit a multitude of agricultural businesses, where they can observe operations, take part in Q&A sessions, and learn about career possibilities. The locations for these visits are meticulously selected in collaboration with the college’s career services team, ensuring that they highlight businesses participating in the annual Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources Career Fair.

Recent Tour Highlights

This semester’s tours included visits to Woodward Livestock Auction and Buffalo Feeders, providing insights into the livestock and feedlot sectors in Oklahoma. At the Woodward Livestock Auction, students were able to connect their classroom knowledge of agricultural economics with real-time market operations and the impact of current regulations on the industry.

Student Experiences

Students have reported transformative experiences through the program. For example, an animal science freshman noted the tour offered valuable perspectives on the agricultural industry and showcased the myriad opportunities available. This highlights the program’s goal of demonstrating that a degree in one area does not limit career possibilities within the agricultural fields.

Program Goals and Future Plans

The initiative aligns with the Ferguson College of Agriculture’s mission of providing students with experiential learning opportunities that engage them with industry professionals. Future expansions of the program are in the works, including tours in various regions of Oklahoma and neighboring states to present students with a broader range of agricultural products and services, as well as increased career exploration.

About Ferguson College of Agriculture

The Ferguson College of Agriculture at Oklahoma State University is dedicated to educating students in agricultural sciences, grounded in hands-on learning and real-world experience. As a leading institution in Oklahoma, the college prepares its diverse student body for robust careers in agriculture and related disciplines.

Key Features of the Industry Insights Program

Key Feature	Description
Program Name	Industry Insights
Target Audience	Ferguson College of Agriculture students
Purpose	Provide firsthand exposure to agricultural businesses across Oklahoma
Recent Tour Locations	Woodward Livestock Auction and Buffalo Feeders
Future Expansion Plans	Offer tours in different regions throughout Oklahoma and surrounding states

Conclusion

The Industry Insights program is a commendable initiative by Oklahoma State University’s Ferguson College of Agriculture, poised to significantly enhance the academic and professional trajectories of its students. The program’s alignment with real-world applications underscores its importance in nurturing the next generation of leaders in agriculture. Readers are encouraged to explore further programs offered at the university and to stay engaged with initiatives that promote student growth and community involvement.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Industry Insights program?: The Industry Insights program connects Ferguson College students with agricultural businesses across Oklahoma, providing firsthand exposure to industry operations and career opportunities.
What businesses have been included in past tours?: Past tours have included Koch Industries, Tyson Foods, Port of Catoosa, Cargill, and the Oklahoma State Capitol.
What are the future plans for the program?: The program aims to expand by offering tours in different regions throughout Oklahoma and surrounding states, exposing students to various products and services and exploring new career paths.