CAST is delighted to announce that a series of exciting new projects, aimed at enhancing our communication, educational outreach, and member engagement, are now live! These initiatives, alongside our rebranding efforts, are designed to better reflect our vision for the future and provide greater value to our members and the agricultural community. Here’s a closer look at what’s now available:

Branding Overhaul: In line with our commitment to innovation, CAST has unveiled a fresh new logo and visual identity. This modernized look reflects our forward-thinking approach and dedication to staying at the forefront of agricultural science. The new branding symbolizes CAST’s evolution as we continue to grow and expand our reach in the agricultural community.

New Website: Alongside our branding overhaul, CAST has launched a completely redesigned website. This new site offers an enhanced user experience, with improved navigation and accessibility features that make it easier for visitors to find the information they need. The website serves as a central hub for all things CAST, providing quick access to our latest publications, news, events, and resources.

State-of-the-Art CRM System: We are also excited to introduce a state-of-the-art CRM system, which includes a comprehensive info hub for members. This new platform allows members to easily check their membership status, submit events, review the latest CAST projects, and interact with other members. The CRM system also comes with a mobile app, ensuring that members can access CAST resources and stay connected on the go.

CAST Connections: Our beloved Friday Notes has undergone a major transformation. Now rebranded and redesigned for a cleaner, more efficient presentation, the newsletter is sent out every Tuesday, strategically timed to boost reader engagement. The new format includes:

• Main Story
• Voices of Agriculture
• CAST Updates
• Ag Science and Tech News
• Agriculture Science Policy News
• Job Opportunities (coming soon)
• Upcoming Events

Each section links directly to the CAST website, offering readers more in-depth information while keeping the newsletter concise. Exclusive member benefits are also highlighted, with dedicated sections on education, job opportunities, and upcoming events to support personal growth and visibility within the community.

Ask the Expert: “Ask the Expert” is now live, featuring engaging Q&A videos with academics and industry leaders. The first episode, featuring Christi Calhoun from the American Meat Science Association, addresses key questions about ground beef color, covering topics such as grind size, fat content, packaging, and the color chemistry involving myoglobin and oxygen. These videos are available on YouTube, the CAST website, and other social media platforms, with shorter clips shared for broader reach and engagement.

CAST Webinars: Our webinars continue to deliver expert discussions on current agricultural topics, coupled with live Q&A sessions. The first CAST webinar will focus on the H5Nx virus, exploring its impact on animal health, agriculture, and food safety. These one-hour webinars are recorded and posted on YouTube, with highlights shared across our social media channels. Audio snippets are also integrated into our podcast series for those who prefer to listen on the go.

CAST Learning Center: The CAST Learning Center will serve as a comprehensive educational platform for audiences ranging from K-12 students to industry experts. This dynamic resource hub offers interactive materials for young learners, advanced content for collegiate students, and specialized resources for educators and policymakers. The Learning Center is designed to bridge the gap between theory and practice in agricultural science, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of the field. (Coming Soon!)

Meet the Expert: Our “Meet the Expert” webinar series is officially underway, with the first session featuring Dr. Marty Matlock, a renowned expert in agricultural sustainability. This live session will include an in-depth discussion of Dr. Matlock’s career and contributions to the field, followed by an interactive Q&A session. This initiative is particularly valuable for students and young professionals, offering them direct access to seasoned experts in the field.

NewsCAST: NewsCAST, our new monthly newsletter, will be available soon, keeping members informed about the latest CAST activities and developments. Each edition includes highlights of new publications, media mentions, welcomes to new members, and updates on upcoming events and projects.

CAST Podcast: The CAST Hour Podcast is now live! In the first episode, hosts Kaylee Kleitsch and Carlos Vianna discuss the impact of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) with experts from the National Milk Producers Federation and the American Association of Avian Pathologists. The episode also features an interview with Megan Schill, a 2023 CAST scholarship recipient, who shares insights into the educational opportunities CAST offers to students. Additionally, CAST CEO Chris Boomsma provides an overview of the exciting new projects launching this September, and there’s a sneak peek at the upcoming Meet the Expert webinar featuring Marty Matlock. Tune in to stay informed on the latest in agricultural science and technology, and don’t forget to subscribe and follow us on social media @CASTAgScience!

Social Media Takeovers: Every month, CAST is inviting leading minds in agriculture to take over our social media channels for a week. The first social media takeover features Alison Bentley, our 2023 BCCA recipient, from September 23-27. Alison, who has extensive research experience in Australia, the UK, and Mexico, is currently the Group Leader in Plant Sciences at the Australian National University (ANU) and Deputy Director of the Agrifood Innovation Institute. During her takeover, she will share insights into the latest innovations in wheat breeding and agricultural technology, providing our followers with a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities in global agriculture.

CAST Student Innovation Conference: We’re also excited to announce that registration is now open for the upcoming CAST Student Innovation Conference, scheduled for November 19-20 in Tampa, Florida. This event is designed to bring together the brightest student minds in agriculture, providing them with a platform to showcase their research, connect with industry professionals, and engage in meaningful discussions about the future of agricultural science. The conference will feature student presentations, workshops, and networking opportunities, making it a must-attend event for those looking to make their mark in the field.