From front lines to the farm: NC State program helps soldiers transition to careers in agriculture
As Fort Bragg soldiers transition out of military service, some now see farming in their future. A new free program through the NC State ag-extension is helping to make that dream come true.
Even in a winter garden, future farmers can learn many things about the business. Taylor Hayworth is used to hard work at Fort Bragg. She said, "I’m a mechanic in the army right now, and I get out in June."
Hayworth’s husband already made that transition, so they have a head start on their farm plans. "We do like a little bit of homesteading, and I just want to build on that," she said.
For other soldiers with similar goals, an NC State agricultural extension program provides expert help.
Liz Joseph, a Cumberland County Co-operative Extension agent, explained the first steps of training. "We go over starting a small business in addition to the nitty-gritty of how to plant things and actually to get them to grow," she said.
Joseph says the free career skills program is for those on a 180-day path to end their military service. They have a wide range of options, for example, planting a home garden, raising livestock or starting their own agribusiness.
They understand that success is not guaranteed. "Because you have to be willing to be a risk taker as a farmer," said Joseph.
Eric Bullock, a military reservist for 19 years with Fort Bragg, is leaving service for medical reasons. He sees his future in agribusiness or possibly a simple small farm.
He said, "This class is giving me the opportunity to learn the differences of running both and how to get started in both. It gives you the framework for ideas for which way you want to go."
There is a larger purpose for all of this weeding and planting. "This gives them an opportunity to still serve the community that they are in by growing food and providing food for their families and communities."
The agriculture extension program partners with many expert groups and government agencies like the Cumberland County Tax Office as well as local farms and agribusinesses.
Other partners include Fayetteville Technical College, the Small Business Center and "NC Works."
