Exploring Careers in Agriculture: Fillmore High School Visits Driscoll’s

Programs

Mar 27

Fillmore High School students at Driscoll’s

Students from Fillmore High School recently had an exciting opportunity to visit Driscoll’s, where they gained insight into the science, innovation, and passion behind berry production.

An Inspiring Start

The day began with introductions from the Driscoll’s team, who shared their diverse career paths in agriculture. Many of them hadn’t initially planned on entering the industry, but their journeys led them here—and now, they couldn’t imagine working anywhere else. Their enthusiasm for their work and colleagues was evident, setting the stage for an inspiring and engaging tour.

Learning about Agriculture Through Interactive Stations

Students rotated through three activity-filled stations, each highlighting a crucial aspect of berry production:

Irrigation & Water Use – Students explored the importance of efficient water management. Through hands-on activities, they analyzed water distribution uniformity in irrigation systems, reinforcing the critical role of precision in sustainable farming.
Blackberry Production & Forecasting – At this station, students learned about the most successful blackberry varieties and the science behind predicting their growth. Understanding these factors is essential for ensuring high-quality harvests and meeting market demands.
Breeding & Flavor Testing – This station took students into the berry trial fields, where they observed which plants were thriving and learned about the research process that lasts at least one full growing cycle. They also explored the impact of pests vs. beneficial insects, using magnifying glasses to examine microscopic spider mites that can harm crops. The highlight? A flavor test featuring over 10 different raspberry varieties, where students ranked sweetness, texture, and overall taste—directly contributing to Driscoll’s research!

A Sweet Send-Off

The day wrapped up with snacks, Driscoll’s hats, stickers, and of course—berries! Each student left with boxes of blueberries and raspberries, along with a deeper appreciation for the science and dedication behind every berry they eat.

A huge thank you to Driscoll’s for an unforgettable experience! This tour not only showcased the diverse careers in agriculture but also demonstrated how innovation and passion shape the future of food production.