One-of-a-kind Program Bridges Gap Between Classroom and Poultry Industry US - Ten college students representing four universities participated in Aviagen's Second Annual Hatchery Short Course held in Talladega, Alabama from May 24-26. During the course, participants from Pennsylvania State University, Texas A&M University, University of Arkansas and University of Georgia received instruction and hands-on experience in the poultry science practice of managing hatchery operations at an Aviagen-owned facility.

Aviagen experts combined classroom presentations with practical learning covering a variety of subjects including: general incubation and hatching practices; hatchery monitoring; and hatchery innovations. In addition, the students learned about the primary breeder's role in genetics and the selection process; quality assurance; research and development; and biosecurity. As part of the hands-on training, students participated in the daily operations of the hatchery and conducted hatch residue analysis, serviced by-products and witnessed first-hand the importance Aviagen places on quality assurance, strain security and vaccine mixing and administration.

"Our goal is to bring students interested in the poultry industry together to learn more about poultry science and ultimately bridge the gap between classroom learning and real industry experience," said Abbey Mathew, coordinator of the Hatchery Short Course and quality assurance technician at Aviagen's Talladega Hatchery. "Our Hatchery Short Course, now in its second year, exemplifies not only our long-term commitment to mentoring future professionals, but also Aviagen's continued investment in the poultry industry."

Annual class size is limited and the criteria used to qualify program attendees are based on the students' future interest in working in the poultry industry and scholastic achievement. To be eligible, students must be a college junior or senior currently studying poultry or animal science. The students are asked to submit an essay describing their reasons for applying and their future career plans. Aviagen pays all expenses throughout the duration of the course and only requires participants to provide their own transportation to and from Talladega.

Source: Aviagen - 7th July 2005