STEP was established at CSU in 1998 and is described by the Crop Science Society of America as a “nationally known educational training program.” STEP is also recognized by the Association of Official Seed Analysts (AOSA) and the Society of Commercial Seed Technologists (SCST).
STEP offers 8 Courses in Seed Technology to train seed analysts to work in State or Commercial Seed Laboratories. A Certificate in Seed Technology is awarded to students who complete the requirements as described on the website.
The courses are invaluable for anyone who wants a career in seed technology or for current analysts working to become a Registered Seed Technologist (RST) or a Certified Seed Analyst (CSA). The STEP Course Program is designed to help fill a well-documented need for new seed analysts within the industry. The courses are offered on line through the Continuing Education Dept. at CSU.
There is a Scholarship Program available for students needing financial assistance. Up to half of the cost of the courses are covered through this program. Anyone interested should contact Karen Allison at 970-491-6295 or email her at karen.allison@colostate.edu.
STEP courses are offered through CSU, Virginia Polytechnic and the Indiana Crop Improvement Association. The STEP courses received the “2012 Seed Science Award” from the Seed Science Society of America for its contribution to Research, Teaching, Professionalism, Service, Extension and Administration. A new course has been added this year: Seed Quality–Seed Production and Genetics. It will be taught by Roger Levy with a Ph.D. from the University of Illinois in Genetics and extensive industry experience. Gil Waibel of Indiana Crop Improvement Association teaches the Seed Vigor course. Mr. Waibel has over 30 years’ experience as an expert seed analyst and seed lab director.
The courses offered include:
1. Seed Anatomy and Identification
2. Seed Development and Metabolism
3. Seed Germination and Viability
4. Seed Purity and Analysis
5. Seed Vigor
6. Seed Storage and Deterioration
7. Vegetable Seed Production 8. Seed Quality–Seed Production and Genetics
