
The Course
Dive into the world of Controlled Environment Agriculture (CEA) with a hands-on course designed to master the ins and outs of climate control systems that are essential for modern farming techniques. From advanced ventilation strategies to intricate heating and cooling methods, this course unpacks the technologies that create the perfect growing conditions for a variety of crops. You'll explore everything from humidity controls and CO2 management to lighting systems that mimic the sun's natural cycle. By understanding how to manipulate and maintain an ideal environment, you'll be able to boost crop yields and produce high-quality produce year-round.
But this isn't just about theory; it's about practical application that can transform the way the world farms. As climate change poses increasing challenges to traditional agriculture, mastering CEA climate control becomes a pivotal skill for the forward-thinking grower. Through real-world case studies and interactive projects, you'll learn how to evaluate, install, and troubleshoot the latest equipment. Whether you're aiming to enhance your own farming operation or break into a booming industry, this course equips you with the technical prowess to stay ahead of the curve in sustainable agriculture practices.
What you will learn
Crafting this course, I focused intently on the fundamentals that newcomers like you need to thrive in the complex world of climate control. I've distilled years of expertise and experience into digestible lessons that will demystify the technology and best practices you'll encounter on the job. The resources are meticulously organized, ensuring that you'll find the learning process intuitive and engaging. This step-by-step guide is not just about theories; it’s packed with real-world applications and interactive elements that will empower you to make savvy decisions, keeping your environments perfectly conditioned while optimizing for efficiency and sustainability. I'm confident that you'll emerge from this learning experience not only with a robust foundation but also with the practical skills that are highly valued in the industry.
Curriculum

Your instructor
Rob brings over two decades of hands-on experience in the growth and development of plant environments, standing at the forefront of climate control technology within controlled environment agriculture (CEA). With a Master of Science degree in floriculture plant nutrition, his expertise stems from his tenure as the Plant Growth Facilities Manager at Purdue University and his significant contributions to groundbreaking initiatives such as the country’s inaugural automated machine-vision phenotyping centers. His expansive career encompasses roles from horticulturist at Dow AgroSciences to consulting for high-profile operations like AeroFarms and Bright Farms, sculpting his reputation as an innovator and thought leader in the efficient management and development of horticultural facilities.
As the Resource Efficiency Horticulturist for the Resource Innovation Institute, Rob not only contributes to the advancement of climate resilience through applied knowledge but also thrives as an educator, translating complex concepts into actionable insights for his students. His passion for sustainable cultivation and environmental stewardship is woven into his teaching, ensuring that the next generation of CEA professionals is empowered to make informed decisions that balance productivity with sustainable practices. Rob's multifaceted experience enhances his teaching, providing a rich context that inspires and informs those poised to shape the future of climate control in agriculture.

Advanced
Mastering Next-Generation Technology in CEA Climate Regulation

Innovative
Pioneering Climate Solutions for Controlled Environment Agriculture

Efficient
Optimizing Energy Use in CEA Climate Control Systems