Cattle Feed Efficiency Data Technician Development Program

该项目旨在为美国牛肉行业日益增长的电子数据应用领域制定培训计划。科尔比社区学院位于堪萨斯州西北部，是这个大型产业的中心。这是第一个这样的项目，吸引了更多的学生到这个农村社区。该计划的毕业生被认证为饲料效率数据技术人员。具体来说，学生们接受了如何使用和维护GrowSafe®采食量和行为监测系统（GrowSafe Systems Ltd.）的培训。这些系统通过数字监控，根据牛将饲料转化为体重的好坏来衡量效率。除了培训部分，学生还了解研究的基本原则。学生们参与进行研究，以证明牛的摄入量、行为和遗传参数。人口增长和能源需求的全球影响迫使畜牧业生产者提高效率。该项目为生产商提供了有价值的应用研究，以帮助他们提高作业效率。更重要的是，学生们了解了基因选择对效率的影响。这个独特的机会将帮助他们成为未来的技术人员或牛肉生产商。毕业生有广泛的就业机会。GrowSafe®公司正在成长，在世界各地的研究和生产环境中都有系统。该项目向学生介绍应用研究，使他们能够与行业人员互动，并帮助他们在毕业时掌握对整个牛肉行业独特而有价值的技能。

The project is designed to develop a training program for the growing field of electronic data application in the U.S. beef industry. Colby Community College, located in Northwest Kansas, is at the center of this large industry. The project is the first of its kind, attracting more students to this rural community. Graduates of the program are certified as Feed Efficiency Data technicians. Specifically, students are trained on how to use and maintain the GrowSafe® Feed Intake and Behavior Monitoring Systems (GrowSafe Systems Ltd.). These systems measure efficiency based on how well cattle convert feed to pounds of gain through digital monitoring. Beyond the training component, students understand the basic principles of research. Students are involved in conducting studies that demonstrate intake, behavior, and genetic parameters in cattle.The global impacts of increased population and energy demand have forced livestock producers to become more efficient. The project offers valuable applied research for producers to help improve efficiency of their operations. More importantly, students understand the impact of genetic selection on efficiency. This unique opportunity will help them, as future technicians or beef producers. There is a wide range of employment opportunities for graduates. The GrowSafe® Company is growing, with systems in both research and production settings around the world. The project introduces students to applied research, allows them interaction with industry personnel, and helps them graduate with skills unique and valuable to the beef industry as a whole.