The Kohl Centre at Virginia Tech announces the inaugural class of Agri-Food Finance Fellows

People posing for a picture — Le Wang, Professor and David M. Kohl Chair, Mario Ortez, Collegiate Assistant Professor of Agribusiness and Entrepreneurship and James A. and Renae C. Pearson Collegiate Faculty Fellow, and the inaugural class of Agri-Food Finance Fellows, at The Inn at Virginia Tech. Not pictured Miru Yim.

The Kohl Centre is thrilled to announce the appointment of six exceptional students to join the inaugural Class of Agri-Food Finance (AFF) Fellows at Virginia Tech. This highly anticipated program is designed for students eager to explore the intersection of finance, the agri-food sector, and cutting-edge artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) tools for financial applications.

Running from January 2025 to December 2025, the Fellowship provides an unparalleled opportunity to gain managerial practical experience, develop critical financial competencies, and build connections with industry leaders.

The Kohl Centre thanks its professional partners for their invaluable contributions in the form of industry projects, seminars, internships, and field trips that will provide Fellows with a distinctive insight into the world of Agribusiness.

Program Highlights for Fellows:

Master Financial Analysis & Modeling: Develop core skills in financial analysis, business modeling, and valuation, essential for decision-making in the agri-food business sector.
Harness AI/ML Tools: Learn to apply cutting-edge AI and ML tools to financial applications.
Industry Engagement: Participate in Kohl Centre-sponsored seminars, workshops, and industry visits.
Real-World Consulting: Collaborate with faculty and external partners on real-world business projects.
Networking Opportunities: Build a multidisciplinary network of peers, faculty, and industry professionals, paving the way for internships and career opportunities.
Professional Development: Receive tailored career training, including resume workshops, public speaking, and mock interviews.
Learning Resources: Recipients of a $500 budget for personal learning enhancement and an additional $200 for industry-related experiences.

The selected students represent diverse backgrounds and aspirations and embody the program’s mission to advance financial innovation in the agri-food sector. Their journey as Fellows will be challenging and rewarding, equipping them with the tools and insights to make a meaningful impact in the industry.