NAS has a program for everyone . From beginners to those with years of experience in the industry , NAS has trained over 300 people through its various training programs such as “ Saturday on The Farm ,” “ Think Outside ,” and “ Mentors Development Program .”
With more than 40 years of expertise and experience in the field of agriculture and viticulture , Doug has played a key role in the Loudoun County Rural Economic Development Council and has collaborated with many to help develop productive farms and jumpstart rural businesses .
“ Agriculture occupies a critical role in our life and economy . Not only does it provide the world with food and raw materials , but it also provides employment opportunities . Unfortunately , our traditional education system does not really expose our youth to agriculture and to all the potential career opportunities in this field ,” explains Doug . “ We want the youth of today to sustain the land that we all work so hard to earn a living from , as well as protect it for the future . Our programs make this possible .”
The nonprofit organization ’ s agriculture-focused programming is designed to fill the gaps in the current system and steer its students toward higher educational opportunities where appropriate .
“ Figure out what you love to do and find the way to make a living at it within the rural economy . At NAS , there are always opportunities . Learning , summer internships , mentoring . We are always striving to promote agriculture and raising awareness about all the career paths this industry has to offer ,” says Doug .
Innovative and with a progressive mindset and culture , NAS also includes soft skills in all its programs . These transferable skills are necessary not only to thrive in agribusiness but in all sectors of the economy and life . Keeping this in mind NAS ’ s existing program has five modules : General Horticulture , Farm Equipment and Safety , Cleaning and Sanitation , Hospitality , and Leadership . The modules are available and monitored online as well as delivered and implemented through in-class training sessions that include soft skills training such as communication skills , conflict resolution , work etiquette , etc .
“ Knowing how to do the job and getting it done are two different things , and it takes the right attitude and mindset to get the job done right . It involves self-discipline , working within a team , and more . That ’ s why soft skills are so important . They prepare young people who are looking to work in any line of business , and they also teach them how to navigate through all sorts of challenges that they are sure to encounter ,” explains Doug .
n Alex Bates “ I knew I wanted to be a farmer when I grow up ”
Alex Bates knew what he wanted from a very young age . While other kids were out playing and having fun , he would be taking care of his chickens and spending time learning all he could about livestock . The people who influenced him to become a farmer
Alex Bates
were his Boys Scout troop leaders , Matt Quitter , and Doug Fabbioli .
“ They really nourished my love for the outdoors and encouraged me to pursue my dreams . Both were Ag leaders and having them as my mentors really forged my desire to become a farmer ,” shares Alex . “ I already loved agriculture , particularly animals , and with my mentors ’ guidance , I realized that I could make my passion my career .”
Alex grew up to be a farmer , indeed . He studied livestock and worked his way up . Former farm manager at Rapidan River Farm , in Charlottesville , Alex now owns and manages his own farm in Pennsylvania , Chapel Ford Farm , where he broods chicks for others , pastured poultry , pastured turkeys and wool sheep .
“ Watching a seed , you planted grow . This is why I like and chose agriculture as my career path . You cannot go wrong . You literally reap what you sow . It is just an amazing feeling to be able to see the result of your dedication , hard work and perseverance right there in front of you . When I see a seed , I planted grow , it just fills me with hope , pride and motivation . It is a feeling and a sense of accom-
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