2024 NAAE Convention

Explore the alignment between the AFNR (Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources) Career Cluster Content Standards and the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) curriculum.  This alignment not only enhances educational offerings in agricultural education but also connects them with opportunities in the construction industry.

Alignment of Curricula: NCCER has adjusted its curriculum to incorporate agricultural language, content, and visuals, aligning it with AFNR standards. This alignment ensures that educational content reflects the specific needs and terminology of the agricultural sector.

Credentialing and Recognition: Students who complete these programs can earn industry-recognized credentials. These credentials prominently display logos from FFA, AFNR, and NCCER. This recognition signifies that students have attained proficiency in both agricultural and construction-related skills.

Pathways and Partnerships: Partnerships with construction organizations, as exemplified by initiatives like CareerStarter, High School Builder Program, BYF (Build Your Future), and HammerMath, create clear pathways for students. These pathways extend from high school into post-secondary education, apprenticeships, and workforce development programs.

Benefits of Collaboration: These partnerships strengthen educational programs by providing meaningful connections and opportunities for articulation. Students benefit from a structured framework that supports their career development and prepares them for successful transitions into the workforce or further education.

Overall, the integration of AFNR standards with NCCER curriculum and the partnerships with construction organizations create robust pathways for students interested in careers that combine agricultural and construction industry skills. This approach not only enhances educational quality but also addresses workforce needs by preparing students with relevant and recognized credentials.