The Department of Horticulture at the University of Kentucky is seeking an Agriculture Extension Associate to support sustainable fruit crop production. This role is a part of the Extension Associate Team funded by the Kentucky Horticulture Council grant and aims to enhance fruit extension outreach and applied research. The successful candidate will collaborate with faculty, specialists, other extension associates, and growers to design, develop, and deliver educational programs and resources related to horticultural crop production and marketing.

This position will contribute to two key extension initiatives:

1. Kentucky Small Fruit Initiative: A project that has invested over $936,000 in on-farm projects, engaging 275 existing and 76 pre-commercial fruit growers in 89 Kentucky counties.
2. Kentucky Modern Orchard Systems and Climate Resilience Extension and Research Orchard: A new research and demonstration orchard focused on developing and adopting production techniques that enhance the economic viability and climate resilience of orchard crops in Kentucky.

Key Responsibilities:

• Engagement with Growers: Maintain regular contact with fruit growers across Kentucky through farm visits, phone calls, and emails.
• Educational Content Development: Write, edit, and distribute educational materials in a variety of formats and media types (E.g. Publications, Videos, Graphics, Social Media)
• Demonstrations & Field Events: Coordinate and support on-farm demonstrations, field days, and educational events across the state.
• Workshops & Meetings: Plan, advertise, and lead topical educational meetings for growers and county extension agents.
• State and National Outreach: Represent the University of Kentucky at state, regional, and national extension meetings, presenting findings and program updates.
• Data Collection & Research: Assist with trial setup, data collection at university research farms, and collaborate with grower partners.
• Reporting: Maintain detailed reports on activities, contacts, outcomes, and the impact of extension initiatives.