We train technicians, managers and entrepreneurs in methods of soil-free gardening in a series of professional courses. Small classes ensure personal attention. Students experience a wide range of hands-on and classroom learning on growing strategies and equipment and help them fit equipment to crop choices based on market research. We also introduce urban gardening concepts in several workshops and seminars.

The opportunity is real and growing. Note that many more jobs and careers call for knowledge or skills in hydroponic agriculture in related industries like manufacturing, distribution, marketing and sales in both retail and wholesale companies. While our programs are not intended as workplace training, the skills and knowledge imparted are steps in the direction of a personally and professionally rewarding occupation and career. For example, these positions were open and advertised as of December 3, 2017 on a national job search board with wages and salaries ranging from $12/hour to $6,000 per month.

These courses are intended to prepare technicians, garden managers, marketing and sales pros, and comunity organizers in the potential and opportunity afforded by urban vertical gardening.

Personal hydroponics

Taught both on and off site, this course explores popular techniques for home vegetable production using commercially available technology.

Introductory hydroponics

Taught on site, this course teaches theory and technique of small scale hydroponic gardening, including hands-on experience with growing microgreens and leafy green adult plants. We examine possible employment as technicians.

Advanced hydroponics

Taught on site, this course expands on introductory topics and adds crop selection, alternative methods and technology, typical problem solving, and common issues in crop protection and quality assurance. We explore possible employment both within and outside the garden, including equipment manufacturing, distribution, retail (e.g., gardening shops and big-box stores). Includes exposure and experience with online management software for garden and sales management.

Professional hydroponics

Taught on site and virtually, this course explores problems in gardening management and further examines job opportunities within and beyond the garden, including education. We consider the "new economic engine" created by supplying fresh, local, nutritious food both to conventional grocers and in the many "food deserts" in underserved communities. Includes use of advanced management software in management of individual and distributed gardens.

Entrepreneurial hydroponics

Taught on site and virtually and in cooperation with selected institutions, we look at how experts can expand opportunities in the many professions tied to urban gardening. This course is open to growers, of course, but also to engineers, architects, financiers and educators.

Anticipamos que revisiones de los servicios educativos de este programa estarán disponible en español comenzando desde mayo de 2024.