Agritechnology

Career & Technical Education

Agritechnology at SouthTech Academy

Interested in sustainability, science and technology? Prepare for a career at the intersection of agriculture and technology through hands-on learning in aquaculture, hydroponics, unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) drones, and other emerging agricultural technologies.

Curriculum

Students in the Agritechnology Academy engage in hands-on learning that explores sustainable food production, precision agriculture, unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) drone operations, environmental monitoring, and data-driven farming practices. Students gain practical experience managing hydroponic systems, aquaculture operations, and outdoor gardens while producing fresh, locally grown crops. Students will solve real-world problems, through competitions such as the Purple Plow Competition and the Plant the Moon Challenge, and will engage in service based learning that allows for interactions with industry partners. Graduates are prepared to earn industry certifications and pursue postsecondary education and high-demand careers in agricultural technology, environmental science, natural resources, and the rapidly evolving agribusiness industry.

Earning Power

A graduate of this academy can expect to earn a competitive wage with unlimited growth potential in agricultural technology, precision agriculture, environmental science, and agribusiness.

How we track success

Industry Certifications

American Meat Science Association Food Safety Science
FL Aquaculture Association Certified Aquaculture Technician
AEST Agricultural Technology Specialist
AEST Agricultural Associate
AEST Agricultural Biotechnology Specialist
AEST Unmanned Aircraft Systems in Agriculture Specialist
Small UAS (sUAS) Safety Certification: Level 1

Industry Partnerships:

Palm Beach County Farm Bureau
Florida Department of Agriculture
Western Palm Beach County Farm Bureau
4-H of Palm Beach County

5-Year Expansion Plan: Where SouthTech Agritechnology is headed

Expand indoor hydroponic systems.
Expand agricultural drone and robotics lab.
Outdoor Gardens: Add a permaculture fruit orchard and an outdoor hydroponic lab.
Livestock: Raise egg-laying chicken and quail flocks, including building coops and runs.
Microgreens: Incorporate commercial microgreen systems to increase campus-raised production.
Mycology: Develop a small-scale on-campus mushroom farm for commercial mycology.
Produce Sales Program: Establish a program to sell produce to staff, the community, and at local farmers markets.

Sustainable Vision

Built to last, environmentally and financially

Environmental: Utilizes technology, Integrated Pest Management (IPM), and soil and water conservation strategies.

Financial: Produce sales generate revenue intended to cover the consumable costs of the program.

Hands-On Student Experience

Practical application across disciplines
Culinary / Agricultural Integration
Laboratory Work
Students engage in hands-on scientific testing and data collection in the classroom.