Missouri State University
Springfield, MO
- Validates a database of grape and wine industry workforce skill standards.
- Provides an educational career pathway with certificate, associate degree, and bachelor’s degree programs in viticulture and enology.
- Coordinates delivery of online and field practicum courses.
- Provides an electronic clearinghouse of viticulture and enology resources.
- Develops problem-based learning activities.
VESTA Helps Students Succeed in Growing Industry
VESTA provides students access to a cadre of nationally recognized expert instructors who provide online courses and participate in the design and implementation of local field practicums. These courses are designed to provide students the scientific, mathematical, and technological skills that are needed for a solid foundation in viticulture and enology. Through its expanding partnership and utilizing its groundbreaking distance education model, VESTA makes it possible for students interested in employment in the grape and wine industry to access knowledge and skill development programs that are not readily available to place-bound individuals.
VESTA Improves the Workforce
VESTA utilizes highly qualified scientists from across the nation to provide students advanced instruction in the science of viticulture and enology. These learning opportunities include access to an expanding portfolio of courses and field experiences that support certificate and degree programs. They also expose students to the latest technologies being developed to enhance grape and wine production.
The center promotes and supports viticulture and enology education through dynamic interactive online courses that address the needs of the workforce in a greatly expanding industry. VESTA began in 2003 with 3 college partners; its partnership expanded to 12 colleges in 2010. This strong team of Midwestern 2-year colleges and their close alliances with vineyards and wineries across the nation provide a network for educating potential and current employees and entrepreneurs. Their combined efforts help ensure the continued growth and success of the industry.
VESTA collaborates closely with industry representatives to assure that industry skill standards are identified, validated, and reviewed on an ongoing basis. Industry representatives provide up-to-date competencies for online courses, field practicums, and internships. VESTA adds structure to viticulture and enology career pathways by establishing articulation agreements between 2-year, 4-year, and post-graduate degree programs.
