The Breakthrough Learning in Agriculture Science Technology (BLAST) program, run by Piedmont Community College (PCC), is engaging over 500 elementary students across Caswell and Person counties. Launched in 2021, BLAST offers afterschool programming that connects students to agriculture, math, and literacy in hands-on ways. By visiting schools directly, BLAST has overcome barriers to participation and continues to grow, incorporating partnerships with N.C. Cooperative Extension and local homeschool groups.

Instructors like Lucas Bernard and Selena Thornton guide students through lessons on agriculture’s many career opportunities, emphasizing that farming is just one aspect of the industry. The program’s success is rooted in its ability to meet students where they are, making learning both accessible and impactful.