By Blake Jackson
Kentucky Agriculture Commissioner Jonathan Shell is encouraging college students interested in agriculture or government careers to apply for the Kentucky Department of Agriculture’s (KDA) 2026 summer internship program. Beginning in 2026, the Department will also launch its first-ever Legal Fellowship Program, offering law students hands-on experience in agricultural legal and policy work.
“The Kentucky Department of Agriculture offers students the unique opportunity to work side by side with our amazing staff of employees,” Commissioner Shell said.
“Through our internship and legal fellowship programs students will gain valuable insight to launch careers in agriculture or an ag-related field. If you are a student with an interest in an agricultural career, we encourage you to apply.”
The KDA internship program is open to students pursuing degrees in agriculture, education, communications, marketing, computer science, pre-law, and related disciplines. The internships will run from June through August 2026.
Interns will collaborate with KDA professionals on initiatives that support Kentucky’s agricultural industry, gaining valuable experience while helping to promote and protect the Commonwealth’s agricultural interests. Applicants must be enrolled in a college, university, or vocational-technical program.
Interested students can apply through the KDA website at kyagr.com/commissioner/internship-program.html. Applications must include a résumé, cover letter, and three references. Questions can be directed to Emery Moore at Emery.Moore@ky.gov.
Agriculture Legal Fellowship Program
Launching in 2026, the new Legal Fellowship Program will operate under the Department’s Office of Legal Services. It is open to second- and third-year law students with an interest in agricultural law, policy, and state government operations.
Fellows will gain experience in administrative hearings, open records requests, and in-house counsel work, such as reviewing and interpreting state and federal agricultural laws.
The fellowship also offers opportunities to engage in policy research and development on agricultural issues at both state and federal levels.
Apply directly at https://forms.gle/BvPiiRQRmDyc5x9U8. Questions can be sent to Heather Becker, General Counsel, at HeatherL.Becker@ky.gov.
Applications for both programs are due by January 1, 2026, and must be submitted digitally. Paper applications will not be accepted.
Photo Credit: kentucky-agricultural-board
Categories: Kentucky, Education, Government & Policy