College and university instructors from throughout the United States participated in the IA Education Foundation's (IAEF) Faculty Academy, June 24-25, in Omaha, Neb.

IAEF hosts 2009 Faculty Academy

College and university instructors from throughout the United States participated in the IA Education Foundation’s (IAEF) Faculty Academy, June 24-25, in Omaha, Neb. The two-day intensive session provided in-class and in-field instruction in irrigation concepts and best practices, while providing a forum to network with their peers.


The Academy, in its seventh year, is a “must attend” session for instructors who understand the growing industry demand for irrigation-trained students. Topics included types of agricultural sprinklers, calculating precipitation rates, an overview of drip/micro for landscapes, the use of two-wire systems and an in-depth discussion about sprinkler uniformity and efficiency. The event also included a tour of IA-member Lindsay’s state-of-the-art center pivot installation, as well as a tour of Oak Hills Country Club golf course. The attendees also took part in a roundtable luncheon which allowed the opportunity to network with other teaching professionals.


Dr. Cathie Lavis of Kansas State University gave a seminar on the second day of the event where she shared how she has made irrigation an experiential learning opportunity for her students.


“One of the best parts of the Academy is allowing instructors to share experiences and discuss how the foundation can help them in their various programs,” said Brent Mecham, IA’s industry development director.


The Irrigation Association Education Foundation is committed to promoting irrigation careers through education. IAEF develops irrigation education resources, offers faculty training and promotes career opportunities through industry and student events. The foundation is a non-profit corporation whose operations are funded entirely by tax-deductible contributions and program revenue. For more information, visit www.iaef.org.