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The California State Board of Food and Agriculture will hear updates related to agricultural technology and workforce development, with an emphasis on the work in South San Joaquin Valley and Southern California, at its upcoming meeting on Tuesday, February 10, 2026. The meeting will be held from 10:00am to 1:00pm at the Tulare County Cooperative Extension Office, 4437 S. Laspina St., Tulare, CA 93274.
“The World Ag Expo is a showcase for agricultural innovation,” said CDFA Secretary Karen Ross. “There’s no better place to link the advances of agricultural technology with workforce development opportunities.”
California’s reputation as a global leader in agriculture isn’t just about productivity; it’s also about the constant pursuit of innovation. California is advancing initiatives like the Ag Tech Alliance, a partnership with CDFA, University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources, agricultural groups, academic and technical organizations, and the Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development (GOBiz) that drives ag tech innovation, climate-smart practices, and workforce development across a nine-region network. With support from California’s Jobs First Initiative, projects like this are attracting private investment, placing workers in long-term ag tech careers, and targeting opportunities throughout the food supply chain.
The State Board will hear from experts about these and related efforts to connect ag tech and workforce development to create, attract and increase access to next-generation jobs.
Invited speakers include: Gabriel Youtsey, University of California, Agriculture and Natural Resources; Dr. Tim Ellsworth, Coalinga College’s Farm of the Future; Rebekka Siemens, Community Alliance with Family Farmers; Jason Giannelli, Old River Farming; Diana Melero Silva, California Farmworker Foundation; Brandon Evans, Kern County Workforce Development Board; representatives from California Ag Tech Alliance and other invited speakers.
“We look forward to hearing about some of the training programs and initiatives being made available to farmers, farmworkers and agricultural educators to better assist the industry in meeting future needs related to automation, climate and sustainability,” said President Don Cameron, California State Board of Food and Agriculture. “As the nation’s largest farm economy - California agriculture is in the spotlight to drive the next generation of talent and tools.”
The California State Board of Food and Agriculture advises the governor and CDFA secretary on agricultural issues and consumer needs. The Board conducts forums that bring together local, state and federal government officials; agricultural representatives; and citizens to discuss current issues and concerns to California agriculture.
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