Place matters: Geographic disparities and credential pathways to agricultural careers in Illinois

Agriculture Food and Natural Resources (AFNR) has a substantial economic and social significant in Illinois. Despite this, systemic barriers linked to geography, socioeconomic status, and racial composition significantly limit access to agricultural high schools and related credentials. This study uses ArcGIS tools and preexisting data/studies to evaluate the spatial distribution and accessibility to agriculture high schools and credentials. The findings of this study highlight the systemic geographical barriers that have majorly affected underserved communities. As identified by this thesis, critical credentialing pathways, including dual credits, industry-recognized stackable credentials, and organizational exposures, could promote better jobs in AFNR. However, systematic geographic barriers have disproportionately excluded the communities that need these resources the most. Hence, this study suggests the need for targeted interventions to close the equity gap and high polarization of jobs in Illinois AFNR.

Name thesis:degree_name

M.S.

Level thesis:degree_level

Thesis

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Ag Ldrship, Ed & Communication

Grantor

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

Year dc:date

2025

Author dc:creator

• Poudel, Abichal

Contributors dc:contributor

• Leman, Amy Marie

• Agricultural Education
• Geographic Disparities
• Educational Access
• Workforce Equity

Statement dc:rights

• Copyright 2025 Abichal Poudel

Language dc:language

en, eng

Handle dc:identifier

https://hdl.handle.net/2142/129958

OAI record oai:identifier

https://www.ideals.illinois.edu/oai-pmh?verb=GetRecord&metadataPrefix=etdms&identifier=oai%3Awww.ideals.illinois.edu%3A2142%2F129958