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。位于堪萨斯州西北部的科尔比社区学院是这一庞大行业的中心。该项目是此类项目中的第一个，吸引了更多的学生来到这个农村社区。该项目的毕业生被认证为饲料效率数据技术员。具体地说，培训学生如何使用和维护GrowSafe®饲料摄入和行为监控系统(GrowSafe Systems Ltd.)。这些系统根据牛通过数字监控将饲料转化为磅增重的情况来衡量效率。除了培训部分，学生还了解研究的基本原则。学生们参与研究，展示牛的摄入量、行为和遗传参数。人口和能源需求增加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，以帮助提高他们的运营效率。更重要的是，学生们了解了基因选择对效率的影响。这一独特的机会将帮助他们，作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®公司正在发展壮大，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，允许他们与行业人员互动，并帮助他们毕业时掌握对整个牛肉行业独特和有价值的技能。

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.