UACCB's FARM Program Offers Hands-On Training for Future Farmers

The university's new agricultural education initiative builds on FFA's legacy to prepare the next generation of leaders in farming, ranching, and agribusiness.

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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The University of Arkansas Community College at Batesville (UACCB) is launching a new Farm and Ranch Management (FARM) program that provides hands-on training and workforce-ready skills for students interested in careers in agriculture. The program, which is celebrating National FFA Week, features state-of-the-art greenhouses, a 207-acre working farm, and a curriculum focused on practical experience in areas like heavy equipment operation, crop production, and cattle management.

Why it matters

As one of Arkansas' leading industries, agriculture plays a vital role in the state's economy. The FARM program at UACCB aims to build on the strong foundation of agricultural education established by FFA, giving students a clear pathway from high school to college-level training and future careers in the field.

The details

The FARM program at UACCB is designed to provide students with a 75% or more hands-on learning experience. Coursework will cover areas like heavy equipment operation, commercial driver's license (CDL) certification, farm and ranch management skills, and crop production in the program's two high-tech greenhouses. Students will also gain real-world ranch experience on a 207-acre farm leased by the Barnett family, learning skills such as vaccinating and deworming cattle, ear tagging and herd management, assisting with calving, and observing livestock sales.

  • National FFA Week is celebrated from February 21-28, 2026.
  • The first cattle are scheduled to arrive at the UACCB farm in March.
  • Classes for the FARM program will begin in August.

The players

Bryan Anderson

The FARM Manager at the University of Arkansas Community College at Batesville (UACCB).

Barnett family

The family that has generously leased a 207-acre farm to UACCB to provide hands-on training in cattle operations for FARM program students.

Tina Goodman

A recruiter at UACCB who can provide information and schedule tours of the FARM program for interested students and families.

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What they’re saying

“It's a great opportunity for youngsters who want to learn about a farm trade, a crop trade – getting out there and doing it hands-on. Our program will be 75 percent or more hands-on.”

— Bryan Anderson, FARM Manager at UACCB (whiterivernow.com)

“We want students to be able to take what they learn, both hands-on and in the classroom, and go out and find a great job in life.”

— Bryan Anderson, FARM Manager at UACCB (whiterivernow.com)

“If any student wants to come visit and talk about FFA and join our ag program, we'd more than likely have them come by.”

— Bryan Anderson, FARM Manager at UACCB (whiterivernow.com)

What’s next

Students and families interested in learning more about the FARM program can visit www.uaccb.edu/farm or call 870-612-2000 to speak with recruiter Tina Goodman to schedule a tour.

The takeaway

The FARM program at UACCB provides a clear pathway for students passionate about agriculture, building on the strong foundation of agricultural education established by FFA and offering hands-on, workforce-driven training to prepare the next generation of leaders in farming, ranching, and agribusiness.