Dr. Saman Sargolzaei, director of the Brain Autonomy and Resiliency (BAR) Lab, recently took a group of enthusiastic students from the College of Engineering and Natural Sciences on an immersive field trip to the UTM College of Agriculture and Applied Sciences‘s corn and soybean farms led by Dr. Barbara Darroch, Professor of Plant and Soil Science in the Dept. of Agriculture, Geosciences, and Natural Resources. This hands-on experience was designed to highlight the intersection of engineering, computer science, and agriculture, aligning perfectly with the objective of fostering interdisciplinary collaboration.
The group, comprised of students majoring in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, and Computer Science, engaged in a variety of exciting field experiments. They explored essential aspects of corn production, including how to describe growth stages and estimate yields prior to harvest.
During the visit, sponsored by Tennessee Corn, students were tasked with measuring corn yield in the field, allowing them to apply theoretical knowledge in a real-world setting. They were provided a comprehensive discussion on basic production practices for field corn, enriching their understanding of agricultural processes and challenges.
“This experience not only enhances our students’ learning but also emphasizes the critical role technology plays in modern agriculture,” said Dr. Sargolzaei. “By integrating practical experiences with classroom knowledge, we aim to prepare them for future careers that leverage both engineering and agricultural science.”
The trip also included an insightful dialogue on the potential future applications of technology in agriculture, encouraging students to think creatively about innovations that could improve farming practices and sustainability.
The lab is committed to providing students with immersive experiences that broaden their perspectives and foster a deeper appreciation for the agricultural industry. Future plans include additional visits to farming conferences and field days, further enriching their educational journey.
As Dr. Sargolzaei and his students continue to explore these vital connections, the BAR Lab remains dedicated to nurturing the next generation of professionals at the exciting intersection of technology and agriculture. Stay tuned for more updates on our innovative projects and initiatives!