Igniting student interest in agri-food careers.
About AGNITOR:
AGNITOR is a pioneering initiative designed to ignite passion and foster awareness among youth about the diverse, rewarding, and sustainable career opportunities across Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources (AFNR). Created by a dynamic team of cross-sector partners in 2023, our program serves as a bridge, connecting teachers, after-school programs, and community-based organizations with Illinois’ vibrant agri-food ecosystem.
Our Mission:
AGNITOR is dedicated to sharing careers, sparking interest, and cultivating a sense of belonging among students by providing real-world exposure to AFNR professionals. We aim to inspire the next generation to explore the vast array of opportunities available to them, regardless of background, identity, or career aspirations.
What We Do:
Career Presentations: AGNITOR facilitates presentations with carefully vetted industry professionals, bringing real-world relevance and career exposure directly into classrooms. These presentations showcase the breadth and depth of careers within AFNR and highlight the diverse paths to success.
Career Fairs and Workshops: We enhance career-connected learning through engagement in career fairs, professional development workshops, and community outreach activities. These events provide students with hands-on experiences and valuable insights into potential career pathways.
Informational Session
In this informational session, you’ll meet our Career Coordinator and AGNITOR Program Manager, Shanell Rainey, and have a chance to learn about our free program, designed to bridge the gap between students and careers in the AFNR industry. What to Expect:
- For Educators: Find out how you can sign your students up for our interactive career chats, where they’ll explore a world of exciting career paths beyond the usual options.
- For Industry Professionals: Learn how you can volunteer to inspire students through in-person or virtual career chats. Share your journey, educational background, and experiences in the Agri-food industry, helping students see real-world career possibilities.
Are you ready to inspire the next generation?
OUR TEAM
Shanell Rainey-Jacob
Executive Director, AGNITOR
Shanell Rainey-Jacob serves as the Executive Director of AGNITOR, a workforce development initiative focused on connecting youth to careers in Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources (AFNR).
With more than 13 years of experience in youth development, workforce readiness, community engagement, and food industry education, Shanell is passionate about helping young people explore career pathways, develop essential life and work skills, and build meaningful connections to the agri-food ecosystem.
As Executive Director, she is leading AGNITOR into its next chapter of growth by expanding partnerships with schools, industry leaders, and community organizations to increase awareness of AFNR careers and opportunities throughout Illinois.
OUR WORKFORCE COLLABORATIVE
Our workforce collaborators are the driving force behind AGNITOR. Their invaluable support through expertise, donations, and partnerships elevates our reach, amplifies our impact, and accelerates our progress.