The Webster City Area Chamber of Commerce will host a groundbreaking today for the Career Ag Academy groundbreaking at its future academy site, located at the Hamilton County Fairgrounds, 1200 Bluff Street, Webster City.

This event is at 4 p.m. and the public is encouraged to attend.

The Career Ag Academy Facility is a partnership between Webster City Schools, Career Ag Academy, Inc., a local nonprofit; and the Hamilton County Fair. The educational facility will offer hands-on experience in the agriculture industry — a huge part of Iowa’s economy that impacts nearly every industry in the state.

Students will get real-world learning experiences, including dual credit courses through partnerships with Iowa Central Community College and Iowa State University to jump-start their ag careers.

The new facility will include a dedicated livestock learning area, meat lab and classrooms for learning and skill development.

The Career Ag Academy is expected to give students a chance to see what careers in agriculture really look like. By gaining hands-on experience, students can explore their options and develop valuable skills to prepare for future opportunities in the industry.

The project is made possible by the generosity of local benefactors, along with a grant from the Enhance Hamilton County Foundation. The Career Ag Academy is expected to be completed by the 2025-2026 school year.