Think about the food on your plate, the clothes you wear, or the parks you explore.
Think about the food on your plate, the clothes you wear, or the parks you explore.
The Agriculture Career Cluster is all about growing, producing, and protecting the resources we depend on—using science, technology, and sustainable practices to feed the world and care for our planet. From farming and fisheries to forestry and renewable resources, this field blends innovation with stewardship to keep communities thriving.
You could be a farmer, rancher, scientist, engineer, or veterinarian—building skills like work ethic, ambition, communication, time management, and a positive attitude along the way.
If you care about the environment, food systems, or working with plants and animals, this could be where you make a real impact.
Courses Offered at Asheville High School and SILSA:
Teacher: Mrs. Bricker
Quick Summary:
Get a better understanding of plant growth and biology.
Start applying knowledge of common plants in North Carolina.
Create a basic groundwork of knowledge to take into growing plants to conduct plant sale.
Why: You should take this class if you have an interest in the plant life/flora and want a better understanding of what goes into supporting these plants!
Relatable Careers around Asheville:
Biltmore Farms, Asheville Food Coop, Agriculture Extension Agent, Farmers Market, Becky’s Florist, Country Club of Asheville
What’s Next:
If you enjoy this class, you should sign up for Horticulture II, also taught by Mrs. Bricker!
Teacher: Mrs. Bricker
Quick Summary:
Learn how to plant and grow sustainably to feed the populations.
Learn about soil conservation, water conservation, and agroforestry.
Learn leadership skills through FFA (Future Farmers of America)!
Why: You should take this class if you are interested in learning about sustainable growing practices.
Relatable Careers around Asheville:
Biltmore Farms, Asheville Food Coop, Agriculture Extension Agent, Farmers Market, Becky’s Florist, Country Club of Asheville
What’s Next:
If you enjoy this class, you should sign up for Sustainable Agriculture II. If you want to gain a better understanding of other areas of Agriculture, you could sign up for Animal Science I, also taught by Mrs. Bricker!
Teacher: Mrs. Bricker
Quick Summary:
Learn about how to market and sell your Sustainably produced crops.
Learn about different types of energy resources.
Master leadership techniques in FFA.
Why: You should take this class if you want to know more about what Sustainable Agriculture looks like, how to produce, and the ins and outs of how to sell products!
Next Registration Opportunity:
If you enjoy this class, you could seek out an internship in Agriculture or sign up for Animal Science I.
Future Plans:
Potential Colleges within the state of NC that offer a degree in Agriculture:
NC State University
NC A&T
Appalachian State University
Duke University
Teacher: Mrs. Bricker
Quick Summary:
Understand the basics of animals such as reproductive systems and digestive systems.
Learn how to handle animals and the production of animals aspects.
Learn leadership skills in FFA.
Why: You should take this class if you are interested in working with or dealing with animals.
Relatable Careers around Asheville:
North Asheville Animal Hospital, Biltmore Farms, Petsmart, Camp Bow Wow, Woof Gang Bakery.
What's Next:
If you enjoy this class, you should sign up for Animal Science II. If you want to get a better understanding of different types of Agriculture, you should sign up for Sustainable Agriculture I.
Credential Opportunity:
YQCA Youth for the Quality Care of Animals
Teacher: Mrs. Bricker
Quick Summary:
Students gain knowledge in the anatomy and physiology, genes, health, and handling of animals.
Deeper look at the diets, skills needed, and techniques needed to successfully work with animals.
Why: You should take this class if you are interested in Animals and potentially want to be a veterinarian, or if you are interested in the science that surrounds the world of animals.
Next Registration Opportunity:
After you have completed Animal Science II, you can look at an opportunity to intern with companies like Biltmore Farms. Or if you want to broaden your horizons in the agriculture field, you can sign up for Sustainable Agriculture I.
Opportunities for Excellence:
If you want to expand your leadership skills and knowledge in this area, consider joining the FFA (Future Farmers of America)!
Interdisciplinary Potential
Based on national labor market data, this Career Cluster is most closely connected to Construction and Hospitality, Events, & Tourism. For more information about the interdisciplinary nature of the Career Clusters, view this resource.
Questions?
Cody Cheek
Curriculum and Instruction Management Coordinator
cody.cheek@acsgmail.net