Farm Credit Hosts PA 4-H State Council for Career Exploration and Entrepreneurship Experience
Mechanicsburg, PA — Horizon Farm Credit welcomed members of the Pennsylvania 4-H State Council to its headquarters on Wednesday, June 17 for an interactive and educational visit designed to introduce students to careers in agriculture, financial services, and entrepreneurship.
The visit offered participants an overview of Farm Credit and its cooperative structure, highlighting how the Association supports farmers, agribusinesses, and rural communities. Students also learned about Farm Credit’s resources for young, beginning, and small (YBS) farmers, including scholarship and internship opportunities available to those pursuing careers in the agriculture industry.
“Providing opportunities like this helps students see the wide range of career paths available within agriculture,” said Johanna Rohrer, Member Education & YBS Program Officer at Horizon Farm Credit. “By combining financial education, hands-on learning, and meaningful connections, we’re helping prepare these young leaders for future success in the industry.”
Throughout the afternoon, students engaged directly with Farm Credit team members and participated in collaborative activities designed to strengthen leadership, communication, and business skills. A networking lunch and group discussions provided additional opportunities for students to connect with peers and professionals in the agricultural industry.
A highlight of the visit was an interactive entrepreneurship exercise titled “The Goat Whisperer of Maple Farm.” During this session, students worked in teams to develop and present their own agricultural business concepts, exploring key principles including product development, cost analysis, and marketing strategy. The activity encouraged critical thinking, creativity, and real-world application of business fundamentals.
The visit reflects Farm Credit’s ongoing commitment to investing in the next generation of agricultural leaders by supporting youth organizations like 4-H and providing access to valuable educational experiences that build career readiness and industry awareness.
The visit underscores Farm Credit’s commitment to building connections with agricultural youth organizations and supporting the next generation of industry leaders. By partnering with programs like 4-H, the Association continues to foster meaningful experiences that inspire curiosity, confidence, and long-term success in agriculture.