Starting in 2013, Dairy Challenge will impact even more students through Dairy Challenge Academy. The Academy will include sophomores, juniors and seniors in four-year dairy programs, along with students from community colleges and technical schools.

• Offer dairy education and networking to more students. In 2013, we expect about 300 dairy students, 130 for the traditional contest and 150 additional with the Academy.
• Further engage university and industry professionals in teaching contemporary dairy issues.

The Dairy Challenge Academy runs in conjunction with the national Dairy Challenge contest, April 4-6, 2013, in Fort Wayne, Ind. About 300 students – both contest participants and academy participants - start together on Thursday, April 4. That evening, the two groups part: contest participants begin the competition while Academy students continue educational work. Academy students spend the next two days working with Academy Advisors to experience first-hand how to evaluate and consult on a dairy farm.

The Academy offers tremendous hands-on involvement for sponsors as Academy Advisors. The agenda includes interactive seminars and structured table talk, plus an on-farm forum and real case study. Each student will visit two operating dairy farms with Academy Advisors – experts from the dairy industry – to learn how to evaluate dairy profitability and approach management challenges.

This involvement creates an ideal environment for learning – and for sponsors to demonstrate their expertise, innovations and career opportunities. Gain from hands-on time with students from across North America - future dairy professionals, producers and veterinarians. Evaluate their abilities first-hand and identify top recruits and future customers. Spotlight company advancements at Saturday's Innocation Fair. Become a top-level sponsor for unparalleled podium time during Industry Technology Seminars.

Learn how your business can be more involved with tomorrow's dairy leaders! [Click on the image]