WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. — Purdue University’s Center for Food and Agricultural Business is partnering with the American Seed Trade Association to host the 2020 ASTA Management Academy in West Lafayette.
Torrie Sheridan, a communication and marketing specialist in agricultural economics at Purdue, said that the ASTA Management Academy focuses on the practical application of general management concepts that are specifically critical to the long-term success of seed firms.
“Case studies and group activities are used to stimulate real-life application of management principles and provide participants with an in-depth look at current industry issues,” Sheridan said.
Sheridan said that the seed program is geared toward both experienced decision makers and those new to the seed industry.
“Historically, participants have represented all industry segments, areas and levels of responsibility, including vegetable and garden, row crop and turf grass marketplaces,” Sheridan said.
Sheridan said that important business topics specifically tailored to the seed industry will be covered during the program, which began March 2 and will conclude March 6.
“Participants will explore fundamental marketing methods such as segmenting and targeting markets, identify and learn to apply financial management tools and learn how to leverage their organization’s competitive advantage,” Sheridan said.
Sheridan said while the academy is geared towards the seed industry, it is critical to look at the larger agricultural landscape and broader economy in order to make informed decisions.
“The academy will feature a U.S. economic outlook session to brief attendees on current and future trends and their implications to come,” Sheridan said.
The communication and marketing specialist said that the information will provide participants with a better understanding of what these trends mean for the changing agribusiness environment and allow them to make educated and strategic long-term decisions.
“The Purdue University Center for Food and Agricultural Business is proud to partner with the American Seed Trade Association to offer this program. Over 1,300 participants have graduated from the academy since its beginning, and we look forward to hosting another group of outstanding seed industry professionals again this year,” Sheridan said.