By Emmy Powell
Communications Specialist

Ten agricultural mechanics and metal technologies educators will be awarded grants this year through Texas Farm Bureau’s (TFB) Ag Mechanics Grant Program.

The $2,500 grants will provide the educators with additional resources to increase their students’ skills.

“The Ag Mechanics Grant Program is designed to give trade school classrooms the resources needed to prepare students for real-world careers in agriculture and related fields,” Kyndal King, TFB Organization Division program assistant, said. “With these funds, educators can provide hands-on learning experiences that build both technical skills and confidence.”

Applicants must clearly outline how the funds will be used to enhance students’ knowledge and skills in agricultural mechanics and metal technologies.

A detailed budget, including estimated expenses, is also required with each application.

Eligibility is open to certified, active teachers instructing grades 9–12 in public schools or accredited non-public secondary institutions.

Applicants must teach courses aligned with TEKS in agricultural mechanics and metal technologies, agricultural structures design and fabrication, agricultural equipment design and fabrication, and/or agricultural power systems.

“This program is an investment in the next generation of the agricultural workforce,” King said. “By supporting access to essential tools and training, we’re helping students gain the practical experience needed to succeed in agriculture and supporting industries.”

A panel of judges will review the applications and select the recipients. Judges will be made aware that the goal of the grant is to provide classroom resources to the educator, not fund agricultural mechanics projects for competition or show.

Grant funds will be paid to the public school or accredited non-public secondary educational institution named in the grant application. Grant funds will not be paid to an individual.

Program guidelines are available online at texasfarmbureau.org/youth/youth-opportunities.

Click here to apply.

Applications must be submitted online by Aug. 7.

Grant recipients will be announced in mid-September.

For more information on the grant program and other resources available for youth programs, contact youthactivities@txfb.org or call 254-313-9430.

Other free classroom resources are available through TFB’s Ag in the Classroom program. Access those at texasfarmbureau.org/aitc.