Is GenerationNext Right for me?

As the agricultural industry continues to evolve, the need for skilled and knowledgeable farm managers has never been greater. Farm Credit East's GenerationNext program is designed to meet this demand by offering comprehensive training for young and beginning farmers, as well as those taking on management roles within their ag businesses. GenerationNext provides the tools and knowledge necessary to succeed in modern farm management. Is GenerationNext right for you?

As we approach the next season of GenerationNext classes at Farm Credit East, this article aims to answer some common questions about the program to find out if GenerationNext is right for you.

Do I have to be the “next generation” at the farm?

No! GenerationNext is open to anyone interested in the topics covered. Common topics include leadership and personnel management, human resources development, financial statements and budgeting, capital investment, marketing and risk management, and generational transfer and estate planning.

The program aims to involve young and beginning farmers that are looking to develop their skills in management, including:

• Famers new to farming or transitioning from another career may want to learn about the unique aspects of farm management.

• Non-family managers or key employees may take GenerationNext to gain people management or recordkeeping skills to help them advance their careers or take the next step toward ownership.

• Farmers taking over for a senior generation are also welcome to join the class to learn new skills as they step into management. These participants will learn about working with family members and transitioning the business.

Is the course graded? Are credits available?

All participants that attend the course and complete the required work will receive a certificate of completion. The course is not graded. GenerationNext is approved to meet the education requirement for the Farm Service Agency’s borrower training.

We expect participants to interact during class and apply the material to their own operation through homework. The participant will get as much out of the class as they’re willing to put in.

Where and when is the course offered?

Courses are offered in person based on demand and online. Each course is offered during the winter to align with the “off season” for most agricultural crops. View the 2025-2026 course schedule.

Online classes include class interaction and case studies over eight 2-hr sessions. In-person sessions cover the same material over three full days (typically 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.). If your operation would like instruction tailored to you and your management team, please contact us for more information on a private course.

For more information and additional frequently asked questions, please visit the program page, GenerationNext.

GenerationNext