ASTA to host "Lab to the Bag" educational program

The American Seed Trade Association's (ASTA) Future Seed Executives Committee will host an educational unit focusing on careers and regulations from the lab to the bag June 12-13 at Pioneer Hi-Bred's headquarters in Johnston, Iowa.

The educational unit is designed for early career seed industry representatives looking to broaden their knowledge about the business of the seed industry and network with peers.

"'From the Lab to the Bag' will provide valuable insight about the path seed takes from innovation to consumer," said Mike Gumina, Pioneer Hi-Bred, a DuPont business, vice president of production, safety, health and environment/risk management. "We are pleased to host this unique learning opportunity that agriculture students and professionals might not find elsewhere."

A panel of seed industry experts will showcase the variety of careers the industry has to offer. Participants will learn about the regulations involved in taking a product from the laboratory through commercialization and tour Pioneer facilities.

Registration, due May 22, costs $100 for ASTA members and students and $150 for non-members. The registration form and complete schedule are available at http://www.amseed.org/mtg_fuse_edunits.asp.

Speakers will include: Jim Gaffney, Pioneer Hi-Bred global biotech affairs and regulatory leader-ag traits; Alan Gaul, Iowa State University seed conditioning specialist at the Seed Science Center; and Gumina who also serves as ASTA chairman.

Bratney Companies, a provider of innovative equipment, value-added engineering and safety-focused construction services, will host a reception June 12 at Pagliai's Pizza for FuSE participants.

The Hilton Garden Inn, located at 8600 Northpark Drive in Johnston, will serve as the host hotel. FuSE has reserved a bock of rooms for $69 per night, which can be reserved by calling 515-727-4949. Participants can indicate on the registration form if they would like FuSE to book a hotel room for them.

For questions and additional information, call 703-837-8140 or email fuse@amseed.org.

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