Strategic Direction 2025-2029
Foundational Pillars and Strategic Priorities
The Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture (NCTA), founded in 1965 as part of the University of Nebraska system, has a rich history of providing specialized education in agriculture, veterinary technology, and related fields. Located in Curtis, Nebraska, NCTA was established to meet the growing demand for skilled professionals in agricultural industries. Over the decades, it has evolved into an institution that blends academic rigor with hands-on training, ensuring that students are well-prepared for real-world challenges. The college’s commitment to practical, high-quality education has made it a cornerstone of agricultural learning in the region, maintaining strong ties with the University of Nebraska College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources (CASNR), statewide industries, and local communities to support the agricultural backbone of Nebraska.
Staying true to our mission, NCTA aims to be at the forefront of agriculture and veterinary technology education in the State of Nebraska, giving students the resources to succeed in industry through the innovative education they have received and the partnerships they have built to enhance that learning experience.
The Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture is committed to enhancing the academic and personal growth of its students. To maintain and grow its status as a leader in agricultural and veterinary technology education in Nebraska, NCTA will focus on three strategic areas: optimizing innovative learning approaches, leveraging engagement in the student experience, and amplifying the impact of NCTA. These areas will be supported by targeted strategic priorities designed to meet the evolving needs of students, faculty, and stakeholders.
NCTA Pillars 2025-2029
Pillar 1: Optimize Innovative Learning Approaches
To optimize innovative learning approaches, NCTA will design learning opportunities that meet student needs by developing industry-aligned curriculum structures and leveraging resources beyond campus. This includes expanding hands-on experiences, integrating emerging technologies, and collaborating with industry and academic partners to ensure students are prepared for evolving workforce demands. At the core of this effort is developing and sustaining faculty and staff who drive student success through innovative, industry-aligned education. By investing in professional development, fostering a culture of creativity, and providing the tools and resources needed to adapt curriculum and integrate technology, we will empower educators to implement cutting-edge teaching strategies that enhance learning and workforce readiness.
NCTA will continue to build a supportive student community through enhanced resources, engagement opportunities, and retention initiatives, ensuring students have the foundation needed to thrive academically and professionally. Strengthening campus infrastructure will enrich student experiences, providing dynamic learning environments that foster collaboration and growth. By aligning curriculum innovation, faculty development, student support, and infrastructure improvements, NCTA will create an educational model that prepares students for success in Nebraska’s workforce and beyond.
Pillar 2: Leverage Engagement in the Student Experience
To leverage engagement in the student experience, NCTA will develop a strong sense of community and ownership among students, faculty, and stakeholders, which is vital for student success and campus vitality. Strategic initiatives include fostering an inclusive and collaborative culture that promotes open communication between students and faculty, supported by regular forums, workshops, and town halls to facilitate dialogue and community building. Professional development programs will be prioritized for faculty and staff, focusing on innovative teaching methods and strategies to engage students effectively, empowering educators to deliver top-quality education and mentorship. Additionally, expanding on-campus resources such as counseling services, career advising, tutoring, and increasing student employment opportunities will strengthen students' connections to the college.
Pillar 3: Amplify the Impact of NCTA
To amplify NCTA’s impact, we will strengthen workforce development by partnering with industry, the University, and other postsecondary institutions with agriculture programs to align credentials with Nebraska’s evolving needs. Collaborating with employers ensures our students gain relevant skills, hands-on experience, and clear career pathways. Expanding awareness and recognition of NCTA through strategic recruitment, stakeholder engagement, and marketing will attract students, strengthen partnerships, and position NCTA as a leader in workforce and economic development. By integrating workforce alignment, faculty excellence, student success, and institutional recognition, NCTA will continue to drive opportunity and economic growth across Nebraska.
Strategic Priorities 2025-2029
By focusing on optimizing learning approaches, leveraging engagement, and amplifying NCTA’s impact, the college will position itself as a leader in agricultural education. These strategic focus areas, supported by targeted priorities, will create a dynamic, supportive, and innovative environment that benefits students, faculty, and stakeholders. Through committed action and collaborative efforts, NCTA will continue to thrive and make a meaningful impact in the agricultural and educational community.
Designing Learning Opportunities to Meet Student Needs
NCTA will provide diverse learning opportunities through flexible models, guided by state workforce needs and the recommendations of advising committees. We will strengthen partnerships with agricultural organizations, businesses, the University of Nebraska and other post-secondary institutions to offer joint programs, internships, and certifications. Additionally, NCTA will more widely incorporate experiential learning into more of our curricula, to integrate hands-on learning through professional development programs into more areas.
Developing and Sustaining Faculty and Staff Committed to Student Success
To develop and sustain faculty and staff, NCTA will prioritize professional development focused on teaching methods to enhance the student-centered goals. NCTA will forward a philosophy of collaboration and support throughout the campus, providing clear expectations aligned with student achievement. NCTA will also actively involve faculty and staff in decision-making processes with feedback mechanisms to ensure campus alignment with NCTA Strategic Pillars
Creating a Community Designed for Student Success
To create a community designed for student success, NCTA will expand student support services, including a student success coach, academic advising, and career counseling. The college will also develop initiatives to increase student involvement in campus life, offering leadership training, team-building exercises, and incentivizing participation in clubs and organizations. Additionally, NCTA will collaborate with industry to create additional internship opportunities designed to create student success.
Expand the awareness and recognition of NCTA
To expand awareness of NCTA, we will create targeted enrollment and marketing campaigns that highlight the achievements of students and alumni, utilizing today’s many avenues to reach potential students and partners. Analytics will be used to measure success and refine strategies. An alumni network will continue to be developed to involve students in events like reunions, professional development opportunities and student mentoring opportunities, using their success stories to promote NCTA. In addition, NCTA will expand on campus and virtual activities to showcase the success of students and alumni, for prospective students, emphasizing our educational offerings and career outcomes.
Enhance the infrastructure for the student experience
To enhance the infrastructure for the student experience, NCTA will prioritize modernizing learning spaces by assessing current infrastructure and identifying areas for improvement, starting with key academic buildings and labs. Upgrades will include technology, furniture, and learning tools, with funding sought through grants or private donations. Additionally, the college will develop a campus-wide strategy to ensure all areas of the campus have the tools and training necessary to support students.
