Dairy Data Academy Application

Dairy Data Academy combines farm-side experiences with classroom learning at the WKU Smart Holstein Lab, giving the next generation of dairy professionals a hands-on look at how dairy science, technology and data intersect. Participants will explore topics such as data accuracy, computer vision, analytics, coding, dairy economics, and data-driven decision making through practical activities and real-world challenges.

Designed for motivated students and young dairy professionals, the program welcomes young dairy producers, agricultural students, aspiring data scientists, computer science enthusiasts, and others interested in the future of livestock technology. Held August 2-5, 2027, Dairy Data Academy offers a place to learn, connect and grow while seeing firsthand how data and emerging technologies are transforming dairy production and career opportunities across the industry.

Applicants must:
- Reside in the United States and be eligible to travel within the United States. 
- Be no younger than 16 years old and no older than 21 years old as of the dates of the program in August 2027 
- Meet one of the following criteria: 
    1. High school junior or senior
    2. Currently enrolled in an accredited two-year, four-year, or vocational post-secondary program
    3. Possess a high school diploma (or equivalent) and be a current employee on a dairy farm

Applicants interested in or pursuing data-focused fields, such as data science, analytics, computer science, engineering, or related disciplines, are encouraged to apply, even if they do not have prior dairy or agricultural experience. 
 
Selection is based on demonstrated interest, curiosity, initiative, communication skills, and potential to contribute to the Dairy Data Academy cohort.

Upon notification of acceptance, participants will be required to submit a non-refundable registration deposit of $100. All airfare or mileage, lodging, meals, and other program-related expenses will be covered by the Holstein Foundation. Payment of the registration deposit must be received within 30 days of the acceptance notification.

Select one cow-related question and one data-related question from the prompts below. Respond to each question in a written essay response (maximum 500 words). Be creative and be yourself. We are not looking for perfect answers. We are interested in how you think, explain ideas, and connect concepts.  

Cow-related (choose one) 
1. Imagine you have access to only one type of information about a dairy herd for an entire year. What information would you choose and why? 
2. If you could develop a new technology to help dairy farmers make better decisions, what would it do and why? 
3. What is one challenge facing dairy farms today that you believe could be improved through better data or technology? Please explain your answer. 
 
Data-related (choose one) 
1. When collecting data, how would you think about balancing data quantity versus data quality? Which is more important in your opinion, and why? 
2. Describe a question you are curious about and explain what data you would collect to help answer it. 
3. Imagine you are given a dataset with thousands of records. What questions would you ask before trusting the conclusions? 

All applications will be reviewed. Applicants may be requested for a virtual interview. Acceptants will be notified by no later than February 1, 2027

I affirm the information I have provided on this application is complete, accurate, and true to the best of my knowledge. I understand that furnishing false information may result in revocation of my scholarship. I also understand that if my application is incomplete, does not conform to the required format, or is received late, it may not be reviewed.