As Director of Graduate Education for Iowa State University’s Graduate Program in Seed Technology and Business (STB), I’m proud of our mission to deliver world-class education to seed industry professionals globally. This fall, we’re offering two in-person learning opportunities that combine expertise, innovation, and hands-on training, continuing the tradition of excellence that recently earned our program international recognition.
Our biannual STB webinar series was honored with a Gold Award in the Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE) Circle of Excellence Awards, selected from 4,460 entries representing 640 institutions in 33 countries. Since launching in 2020, the series has connected participants from 37 countries on topics such as seed regulations, biotechnology, seed health testing, and artificial intelligence in agriculture. This recognition affirms our commitment to professional development, knowledge-sharing, and global engagement.
Building on that success, the STB On-Campus Short Course, set for November 19 to 21, 2025, will provide targeted learning for seed professionals. Morning sessions will focus on new technologies in seed treatment, seed conditioning, and seed physiology, followed by afternoon industry tours where attendees can see innovation in practice. This format ensures participants gain both theoretical knowledge and practical insights to apply immediately in their work.
Just weeks earlier, from October 7 to 9, 2025, we’ll partner with the National Seed Health System to host a Seed Health Testing Workshop. Designed for early-career seed laboratory technicians, especially those seeking employment with National Seed Health System accredited labs, this hands-on course blends lab technique training with classroom discussions. The focus is on developing practical skills for accurate, reliable seed health testing, while also providing the context to understand regulatory and quality assurance frameworks.
These two programs illustrate the breadth of what Iowa State offers in seed science education, covering both emerging industry trends and the technical skills essential for maintaining seed quality and safety. Whether through our award-winning webinars or in-person training, our goal remains the same: connect professionals with the knowledge, tools, and networks they need to excel.
The STB short course will run daily from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., offering concentrated learning and networking in Ames, Iowa, a hub for agricultural innovation. The seed health workshop will follow the same schedule, maximizing time for immersive training and peer interaction.
Both events present opportunities to engage directly with Iowa State University’s faculty, industry leaders, and fellow seed professionals. They also serve as gateways to ongoing professional development through our graduate program and global learning platforms.
Space is limited for each program, and early registration is encouraged to secure your spot.
By investing in professional growth through programs like these, participants strengthen not only their own careers but also the seed industry as a whole, ensuring innovation, quality, and resilience for years to come.
