b"CULTIVATING TOMORROW'S INNOVATORSStudents during the course week in Enkhuizen.Photo: Jovan Djordjevic.We recommend students create a list of action points during the course. Choose the top five and start implementing them the day you return to work.LEARNING BY DOINGThe curriculum spans two intensive years, with six sessions held in Europe. Topics include statistical modeling for decision-making, breeding program design, and managing genetic diversityall tailored to meet the demands of the industry. Students balance a full-time job with assignments and a final project, which integrates their learning into real-world applications. Its not as demanding as a PhD thesis, Dr. Djordjevic notes, but its practical and directly relevant to solving their workplace challenges.Past participants consistently praise the programs immediate impact. One former student shared how lessons learned during the Academy could be applied within a week of returning to work. This focus on practicality and real-world application is what sets the Academy apart.LOOKING AHEADThe next class of the European Plant Breeding Academy is set to begin in March 2025 in Enkhuizen, The Netherlands. As in pre-vious years, we filled all the 20 slots, which reflects the programs stellar reputation. Im happy to share that we have participants from 10 countries, and from 14 companies. For companies interested in the class of 2027, let us know, and well place you on the list. Spots are limited, so its a good idea to secure yours soon! advises Dr. Djordjevic. Interested parties can learn more at pba.ucdavis.eduCULTIVATING A SUSTAINABLE FUTUREAs the agricultural sector faces growing challenges, from climate change to food security, the need for skilled plant breeders has never been greater. The UC Davis Plant Breeding Academy isnt just an educational program; its a beacon of innovation, empowering pro-fessionals to lead the charge in sustainable agriculture. With leaders like Dr. Djordjevic at the helm, the future of plant breeding looks bright, practical, and data driven. FEBRUARY 2025|SEEDWORLD.COM/EUROPEISEED WORLD EUROPE I 11"