44 Farms
The 44 Farms International Beef Cattle Academy opened its online classroom in September 2018. Since then, participants have had the opportunity to increase their knowledge of global beef production.
“The 44 Farms International Beef Academy offers an exclusive, customized and advanced learning experience tailored to the educational and professional needs of each participant,” said Dr. Reinaldo Cooke, associate professor in the Department of Animal Science at Texas A&M University in College Station. “Participants have access to emerging technologies in cattle reproduction, nutrition, genetics, health and welfare related to all phases of beef production, including cutting-edge practices for the quality and safety of beef products.”
The course is limited to 30 students; the applicants go through a selective screening and review before enrollment is accepted. The academy is open to beef industry producers, professors, researchers, or any professionals with a good basic background in beef production, Cooke said.
The first wave of students seem to be enjoying the content and learning from internationally renowned speakers from U.S. and international institutions.
“We have received very positive feedback from students,” Cooke said. “The students are learning from renowned speakers not only from A&M, but also from other U.S. and international institutions. The students have indicated they are very pleased with the quality, novelty, and relevance of the information being presented.”
According to Cooke, the goal for this program is for participants to become ambassadors of the academy. As an ambassador, they will have the ability to promote the information they’ve learned and the opportunity to come back and learn more in the future.
“Upon conclusion, students will come to campus here in College Station for hands-on learning opportunities and participate in the annual Texas A&M Beef Cattle Short Course before graduating,” Cooke said.
This program wouldn’t be possible without the gift of funds from 44 Farms based in Cameron. They are the signature sponsor of the Texas A&M 44 Farms International Beef Cattle Academy. Their donation will be used to support scholarships, the development of educational curriculum and other expenses incurred by the cutting-edge online program.
“We are extremely pleased to have Bob McClaren, and 44 Farms make this contribution and commitment,” said Dr. Cliff Lamb, department head for animal science at Texas A&M. “44 Farms sees the value and tremendous educational opportunities by providing this international educational platform to further enhancements throughout the beef industry.”
