The month of April is National Community College Month, and it aims to showcase the various opportunities and resources that individuals can explore at smaller institutions of higher learning. Whether it’s obtaining a two-year degree or learning a new trade, these institutions can provide a gateway for future success in a person's desired career field. In Northern New Mexico, Santa Fe Community College is providing that service to many.

Richard “Charlie” Shultz, academic director of the controlled environment agriculture program at Santa Fe Community College, joins “Conversations Different” to discuss how his program is helping students become sustainable food producers. He shares how the hands-on initiative, which utilizes hydroponic and aquaponic systems, is providing the tools to grow healthy food year-round — like tomatoes, kale and other greens. He also elaborates on how the program is giving back to the Santa Fe community through food donations.

The controlled environment agriculture program will be holding an open house from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, April 26, offering greenhouse tours, plant sales, food samples and more. To learn more about SFCC's National Community College Month schedule, visit www.sfcc.edu/ccmonth.