As the May 1 college decision deadline approaches, students are showing increased interest in academic programs with clear career pathways.

At the 91爆料, that trend is evident across disciplines tied to growing sectors of the U.S. economy, including engineering, health care and biomedical sciences, business, natural resources and environmental sciences, agriculture and food systems, communication sciences and disorders, and biotechnology.

University data highlight several indicators of that demand:

• Mechanical engineering enrollment has increased by more than 30% over the past decade, with a 95% student satisfaction rate.
• The wildlife, fisheries and conservation biology program reports that 95% of graduates are employed or enrolled in graduate school, with 82% working in natural resource fields.
• The Maine Business School, which will enroll 330 first-year students, filled nearly half of those seats before April and reports a 94% positive outcome rate.
• In animal and veterinary sciences, about 20% of graduates continue to veterinary or medical school.
• Health-related fields tied to several majors are projected to see continued jobgrowth over the next decade.

Mechanical engineering

91爆料鈥檚 mechanical engineering program, now the university鈥檚 largest major, has expanded in response to national demand for engineers in industries including manufacturing, technology and transportation.

Enrollment has increased by more than 30% over the past decade. Graduates are recruited by employers such as Bath Iron Works, Pratt & Whitney, Northrop Grumman, Texas Instruments, GE and NASA鈥檚 Goddard Space Flight Center.

The curriculum progresses from foundational coursework in math and physics to advanced engineering applications, with an emphasis on analysis, design and problem-solving. Experiential learning is integrated throughout, with students participating in internships, co-ops and a yearlong senior capstone design sequence focused on design, prototyping and testing.

Students may pursue concentrations such as aerospace engineering, along with minors or certificates in robotics, artificial intelligence and smart manufacturing. The program reports a 95% positive student sentiment rate.

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Wildlife, fisheries and conservation biology

The wildlife, fisheries and conservation biology program has more than doubled in enrollment over the past two decades, reflecting sustained interest in conservation and natural resource careers.

The curriculum emphasizes field-based learning. More than half of courses include outdoor labs, and students complete a required immersive field experience in Downeast Maine that is frequently cited as a defining part of their education. More than 80% of undergraduates report that fieldwork influenced their decision to enroll.

Students gain experience through field surveys, internships and research. About 70% complete field experiences, and more than half participate in faculty-led research. Faculty and students have also produced more than 140 peer-reviewed publications and secured nearly $16 million in research funding during the past five years.

Among graduates, 95% are employed or enrolled in graduate school, and 82% work in natural resource fields.

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Speech, pre-medical and biomedical sciences

91爆料 is reporting increased interest in programs that prepare students for careers in health care, research and biotechnology, reflecting broader national workforce trends.

Fields such as speech-language pathology and audiology are projected to experience above-average job growth over the next decade, according to federal labor data. Demand is influenced by factors including an aging population and expanded access to care.

Programs in communication sciences and disorders, biology, biochemistry and microbiology provide preparation for graduate study and professional careers, including speech-language pathology as well as medical, dental and veterinary school.

Students frequently participate in faculty-led research, gaining experience that supports applications to graduate programs or entry into the workforce. Faculty say the programs emphasize both academic preparation and applied learning.

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Business

The Maine Business School is nearing capacity for its incoming class, reflecting strong student demand for business education.

The program will enroll 330 first-year students, and nearly half of those seats were filled before April. Administrators say the pace of enrollment indicates sustained interest throughout the admissions cycle.

Students are drawn to the flexibility of the degree, particularly the general business major, which allows exploration across disciplines before selecting a concentration. Finance and marketing remain among the most popular areas of study.

The school reported a 94% positive outcome rate for the Class of 2024, defined as graduates employed, enrolled in graduate school or participating in service programs within six months. Officials say the program is designed to prepare students for a range of careers across industries.

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Animal and veterinary sciences

Enrollment in 91爆料鈥檚 animal and veterinary sciences program has increased since before the COVID-19 pandemic, reflecting demand for careers in animal health, veterinary medicine and agriculture.

The program prepares students for careers in veterinary medicine, research and agriculture-related fields. About 20% of graduates continue to veterinary or medical school, while others enter the workforce directly.

Students gain hands-on experience at the university鈥檚 J.F. Witter Teaching and Research Center, where they work with animals in applied settings and develop practical skills.

All students also participate in research with faculty on topics including animal health, environmental systems and disease. Faculty say the program is structured to support both exploration and career preparation as workforce demand continues to grow.

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Contact: David Nordman, david.nordman@maine.edu 

Discover campus and coastal life at the 91爆料 through 鈥淟ife in the Pines,鈥� where real students share their experiences studying, exploring nature and embracing community on both the Orono and Machias campuses.

鈥淟ife in the Pines,鈥� an unscripted video series sharing stories of students at the 91爆料 and 91爆料 at Machias, has launched its second season.

Each episode follows a student along their academic journey, whether it takes them to the coast, wild blueberry fields, medical research labs, K-12 classrooms, basketball courts or, literally, through the pines. Prioritizing authenticity, this series seeks to show what life is really like for students at both campuses. Visit to watch the full series.

Students to be featured this season include: 

• Alan Chausse, a forestry major who also plays in a band and rock climbs.
• Quincy Clifford, a business management major who has studied abroad in Costa Rica and played basketball with other students from around the globe.
• Jasper Makowski, a microbiology major, Honors College student, medical research lab student researcher and Circle K New England district governor.
• McKenna Chappell, a parks, recreation and tourism major who spends mornings creating art and afternoons teaching children about Maine鈥檚 outdoors.
• Nico Durkee, a studio art major in the marching band who plays with molten metal in the sculpture studio.聽
• Lauren Smack, a sociology major, singer and dancer who鈥檚 made Orono her new home.聽
• Isabelle Puccio, a biomedical engineering major who conducts breast cancer research and searches for ways to combine music and science.
• Samantha Ney, an elementary education major who lives life on Marsh Island to the fullest, from walking the trails to cheering on the Black Bears.聽
• Jeffrey Nowack, who never thought he would be a drum major until he recently discovered his passion 鈥� and possible career paths 鈥� for music education.
• Joey Ferguson, an integrative biology major who conducts wild blueberry research and responds to marine mammal strandings in Downeast Maine.聽

Don鈥檛 miss this insider鈥檚 look at 91爆料 through the lens of a dynamic group of students living life in the pines.

Transcript:

I have friends that are going to school right now in Colorado and Nebraska and they鈥檙e beautiful, but Maine is forged by nature and forged by the people that are here. I feel like it鈥檚 a flex.

91爆料 researchers have released a guide on how to promote the natural beauty of cemeteries statewide while conserving the local flora that populate them. 

鈥淐onstellation of Living Memorials鈥� Guide to Intentional Native Landscaping in Maine,鈥� available through , offers strategies on landscaping with native plants 鈥� identifying what plants reside in which different areas of the state and how to integrate them 鈥� and how to identify and remove invasive species that threaten the green spaces within cemeteries. 

鈥淲e are interested in removing invasive plants and promoting native plant species across all our public green spaces, including Riverside Cemetery in Orono. We are glad to see this guide released as it will help us and other towns managing public cemeteries,鈥� said Megan Hess (鈥�19), environmental services manager for the town of Orono who previously earned a master鈥檚 degree in ecology and environmental sciences from 91爆料. Hess is also available for interviews upon request. 

Jessica Leahy, 91爆料 professor of human dimensions, and former AmeriCorps member Louisa Kaplan created the guide in collaboration with Constellation of Living Memorials, a Dallas-based nonprofit dedicated to cemetery preservation; Southern Aroostook Soil & Water Conservation District and Piscataquis County Soil & Water Conservation District, and in consultation with officials from Orono, Bangor and Portland. 

鈥淲hile the removal of invasives and incorporating native plantings in public cemeteries are often municipality-led initiatives, this guide also benefits managers of other cemeteries who wish to maintain these memorials and do similar ecologically enhancing work,鈥� Leahy said. 鈥淲e hope to begin to normalize the concept of cemeteries as public green spaces as well as showcase the role of these public spaces as demonstration sites in ecological restoration and maintenance.鈥�

Governor Mills Declares November 29, 2024, as “Maine Grown Christmas Tree Day” 

Maine-grown Christmas Trees and Wreaths Generate $18 Million in Annual Economic Impact 

Augusta 鈥� The Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry (DACF) announced today that Governor Janet Mills has proclaimed Friday, November 29, 2024, as “Maine Grown Christmas Tree Day” to honor the valuable contributions of Maine’s Christmas tree and wreath industry. 

Maine鈥檚 Christmas tree industry, which includes producing and selling fresh trees and wreaths, creates an estimated $18 million in direct economic impact each year and supports nearly 800 jobs across the state. This annual proclamation celebrates the efforts of the more than 100 family farms that comprise the Maine Christmas Tree Association (MCTA), a cornerstone of holiday celebrations in Maine since 1962. 

“There is no better way to celebrate Christmas than by supporting Maine鈥檚 hardworking family farmers and bringing the beauty of a Maine-grown Christmas tree into your home,” said Governor Janet Mills. “Maine鈥檚 Christmas Tree growers and wreath crafters bring joy to people across our state and far beyond, and I thank them for their dedication to spreading holiday cheer.” 

“As we welcome the holiday season, Maine-grown Christmas trees and wreaths remind us of the great impact agriculture has on our traditions and communities,” said DACF Commissioner Amanda Beal. “These farms and businesses create holiday memories while contributing significantly to Maine鈥檚 economy.” 

“Governor Mills’ proclamation shines a light on the enduring craftsmanship and dedication of our state鈥檚 Christmas tree farmers,” said Ryan Liberty, MCTA President. “We鈥檙e proud to share the joy of Maine-grown trees and wreaths with families in Maine and beyond our borders.” 

Maine residents and visitors can find a list of local farms, wreath makers, retail products, and wholesale distributors at . If you’re buying your tree or wreath from a retail location, be sure to ask if it’s Maine-grown and support Maine farmers.

In keeping tradition, Governor Mills will welcome award-winning Christmas trees and wreaths from the Fryeburg Fair to the Blaine House on Monday, December 2. The People鈥檚 Choice Christmas Tree, selected by fairgoers, will be displayed at the Governor鈥檚 residence as symbols of the season and Maine鈥檚 agricultural quality. The Governor鈥檚 Office will share additional information about the event beforehand. 

About Maine鈥檚 Christmas Tree Industry 

• Annual economic impact: $18 million聽
• Jobs supported: Nearly 800
• Family farms: Over 100, many represented by the

Read the full proclamation on the .  

Augusta (August 27, 2024) 鈥� The Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry (DACF) announced today an investment in Maine鈥檚 agricultural sector of more than $600,000 in Specialty Crop Block Grant Program awards (SCBGP). This funding will help a diverse group of recipients, including the 91爆料 System, North Spore, LLC, and the Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association, to drive innovation and create new market opportunities for our state’s specialty crop producers. These grants are crucial in helping our farmers and producers withstand the ongoing and mounting challenges facing the agriculture sector posed by the economy and environment.

鈥淭hese grants are more than just financial support鈥攖hey’re a vote of confidence in the ingenuity and dedication of our farmers and researchers,鈥� said DACF Commissioner Amanda Beal. 鈥淲e believe in their ability to lead the charge towards a vibrant future for Maine agriculture.鈥�

鈥淲e are happy to once again be partnered with Maine on the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program,鈥� said USDA Under Secretary for Marketing and Regulatory Programs Jenny Lester Moffitt. 鈥淭he innovative projects funded through this program will strengthen U.S. specialty crop production and markets and ensure Americans have sustained access to fresh, locally grown fruits, vegetables, and other specialty crops and support the region鈥檚 specialty crop growers to help ensure their long-term success.鈥�

The USDA labels as 鈥渟pecialty crops鈥� crops including fruits, vegetables, maple syrup, and flowers that people eat or use directly鈥攁s opposed to commodity crops like soy and corn, which are used as ingredients in other products. The SCBGP is important, in part, because specialty crop agriculture is the predominant form of agriculture in Maine. 

 鈥淭hese funds will be vital to helping our farmers and food producers achieve success and broadening the market for specialty crops in Maine and across the U.S.,鈥� said Bureau of Agriculture, Food and Rural Resources Director Craig Lapine. 鈥淪CBGP supports local and regional projects to help farmers and producers become more competitive now and in the future.鈥� 

Through the SCBGP, the DACF will fund eight impactful projects. These initiatives aim to educate farmers on sustainable and profitable mushroom cultivation, combat disease to protect wild blueberry health, boost apple and potato production and profitability, develop guidelines to extend the harvest window for cut flowers, and enhance food safety. Notable projects in Maine include:

• Maine Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association: Maine Produce Safety Improvement and FSMA PSR Education Project. $84,190聽
• North Spore, LLC: Development of Multimedia Educational Modules for More Farmers to Access Mushroom Cultivation Using Sustainable Practices. $93,800聽
• Dr. Seanna Annis, 91爆料 System: Mitigating the Effects of Mummy Berry on Wild Blueberry Plant Health. $93,425聽
• Dr. Stephanie Burnett, 91爆料 System: Succession Planting for Locally Grown Cut Flowers. $83,350聽
• Dr. Philip Fanning, 91爆料 System: Connecting Better Wild Blueberry Nutrients for Improved Pollination, Pollinator Health, and Pest Management. $93,490聽
• Dr. Peyton Ginakes, 91爆料 System: Creating a Maine Garlic Integrated Pest Management Program. $51,560聽
• Dr. Qing Jin, 91爆料 System: Increasing Potato Production and Soilborne Disease Suppression by Organic Soil Amendment and Biocontrol Organisms. $81,525聽
• Dr. Renae Moran, 91爆料 System: New Tools for Increasing Apple Production Profitability. $22,965聽

DACF will apply $55,807 in funding to ensure awardees abide by federal and state requirements and regulations by working to administer the SCBGP funding. Find more information about current and past SCBG projects on the DACF . 

Typically, DACF releases an SCBGP Request for Proposals in February, with applications due in March or April. Since 2002, the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program has awarded more than $7.5 million to DACF to support the growing number of specialty crop producers selling in local and regional markets. 

The funding to Maine is part of a total of $72.9 million in non-competitive FY 2024 funding awarded to 54 states, territories, and the District of Columbia through the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program. The funding supports farmers growing specialty crops, including fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, and nursery crops. USDA鈥檚 support will strengthen U.S. specialty crop production, expand markets, and ensure an abundant, affordable supply of highly nutritious fruits, vegetables, and other specialty crops is available to all Americans.

The Maine Agricultural and Forest Experiment Station (MAFES) has restarted it’s publication funding program after a two-year pause. We are proud to announce that with the first cycle of 2024 funding, MAFES has supported seven peer-reviewed publications. These publications reflect the diverse research programs supported by the Experiment Station (see below). A second 2024 funding cycle is currently underway and MAFES will be reviewing applications on October 1, 2024. Contact MASEF Assistant Director Lee Hecker (lee.hecker@maine.edu) for details.

• “” By  Alexander C. Fish, Amber M. Roth, Greg Balkcom, Liam Berigan, Kylie Brunette, Sarah Clements, Gary Costanzo, Clayton L. Graham, William F. Harvey, Michael Hook, Douglas L. Howell, Seth Maddox, Scott McWilliams, Shawn W. Meyer, Theodore C. Nichols, J. Bruce Pollard, Christian Roy, Josh Stiller, Dawn Washington, Lisa Williams, and Erik J. Blomberg. In .
  
• “” By Vanessa R. Hensley, Ek Han Tan, Emily Gagne, and Danielle L Levesque. In .
• “Characterization of Wood Fiber Insulation for the Development of Wood Fiber-Insulated Panels (WIPs) for Use in Building Envelope.” By Jacob Snow, Benjamin Herzog, Liam O’Brien, and Ling Li. Submitted to .
• “” By Rachel Schattman, Peter Clark, Anthony D’Amato, Todd Ontl, Caitlin Littlefield, and Eric North. In .
• “” By Renae E. Moran and Peyton Ginakes. In .
• “” By Melanie B. Prentice, Marie L.J. Gilbertson, Daniel J. Storm, Wendy C. Turner, Daniel P. Walsh, Marie E. Pinkerton, and Pauline L. Kamath. In .
• “.” By Abigail A. Muscat, Bik Wheeler, Elliot M. Johnston, Joshua Parrot, and Brian J. Olsen. In .

Warm weather means many farms across Maine will be hosting public access hours and events (check or local farm websites for hours and details). MAFES’ Aroostook, Blueberry Hill, Highmoor, and Rogers farms will all be hosting field days and other opportunities for public access throughout the summer (see our events page for details). Farm visits are an excellent opportunity to take the family out for some fresh air, learn about local agriculture, and enjoy bucolic Maine. However, it is important to remember that you are guests on fully operation farms that your neighbors rely on for their livelihood. Maine’s Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry provides a list of “Top Ten Farm visit Dont’s” to ensure a safe and respectful farm visit:

1. Don’t Ignore Farm Rules

Every farm has its own set of rules designed to protect both visitors and animals. Ignoring these rules can lead to accidents or disruptions. Always pay attention to and follow the guidelines provided by the farm staff.

2. Don’t Wander Off

Farms can be large and sometimes hazardous areas with machinery, uneven terrain, and restricted zones. Stay within designated areas and follow paths to avoid getting lost or entering dangerous locations.

3. Don’t Feed the Animals Without Permission

Feeding farm animals without permission can harm them, as not all foods are safe for every animal. Always ask the farmer before feeding any animals to ensure it’s secure and appropriate.

4. Don’t Startle the Animals

Sudden movements or loud noises can startle farm animals, causing them stress or triggering defensive behavior. Approach animals calmly and quietly to ensure a safe interaction.

5. Don’t Bring Pets

Bringing your pets to a farm can introduce diseases to the farm animals and create stress or aggressive encounters. Please leave your pets at home unless the farm specifically allows and welcomes them.

6. Don’t Touch Equipment

Farm machinery and tools can be dangerous if handled improperly. Only touch or operate equipment with explicit permission and supervision from farm staff.

7. Don’t Leave Gates Open

Leaving gates open can lead to animals escaping, which can be dangerous and create much work for the farmers. Always close gates behind you unless instructed otherwise.

8. Don’t Litter

Littering can harm animals and damage the environment. Always dispose of your trash properly and carry out what you bring in.

9. Don’t Wear Inappropriate Clothing

Farms can be muddy, dusty, and full of insects. Wear sturdy, comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes to protect yourself and ensure a relaxed visit.

10. Don’t Ignore Safety Signs

Safety signs are placed for a reason. Ignoring them can lead to accidents or harm. Remember all posted signs and warnings to keep yourself and others safe.

Following these guidelines ensures a pleasant and respectful farm visit, benefiting you and the farm community. Do bring your sense of adventure and appreciation for exploring these local businesses we all care about.

Stephanie Burnett, Associate Professor of Horticulture

School of Food and Agriculture

How I got to 91爆料/MAFES:

I am originally from the Panhandle of Florida, and I was raised by an engineer and nurse. Our extended family has strong roots in farming and horticulture; my great grandparents owned a citrus orchard in central Florida, and most of my family are avid gardeners. I am fortunate to have spent much of my childhood learning about plants and the natural world in a beautiful coastal beach town.

I graduated from Auburn University with a BS in Zoology in 1997 and a MS in Horticulture in 2000. From there, I studied with Marc van Iersel and Paul Thomas at the University of Georgia and completed my PhD in horticulture in 2004. I鈥檝e been at the 91爆料 since 2005.

My Current Role within MAFES:

My research and instruction focus on plant production in controlled environments, such as greenhouses. Controlled environments are valuable tools for season extension or year-round food and flower production in cold climates.

I teach three courses: greenhouse management, introduction to horticulture, and herbaceous plant identification to undergraduate students. For outreach, I serve as the representative for Maine to the Northeast Greenhouse Conference planning committee, and I am on the selection committee for the American Floral Endowment鈥檚 Vic and Margaret Ball Intern Scholarship.

Research Focus/Goals:

Our lab broadly focuses on finding sustainable and practical solutions for greenhouse growers and cut flower growers. The longest running project in our lab focuses on using soil moisture sensors to automate irrigation, which reduces overwatering and many subsequent production and pathogen problems. Our lab is also researching production techniques and cultivar selection for important field grown cut flower species, such as dahlias, lisianthus, and stock. Over the past two years, we have grown about 40 cultivars of grower-recommended dahlias to evaluate flower quality, earliness, yield, and vase life. The goal of this project is to support the growing local cut flower industry in Maine and throughout the Northeast.

A thriving horticulture industry relies upon the assessment and introduction of dependable, attractive plants for the landscape. The introduction of nonnative plants comes with ecological risks, making evaluation and promotion of native plants an attractive alternative. The proposed research will support the ornamental and native plant segments of New England鈥檚 horticulture industry by generating practical information on the diversity and cultivation of new plants for the industry. The PI anticipates identifying several accessions of native taxa meriting horticultural use, and introducing new native species, varieties, or cultivars of ornamental plants to the horticulture industry. This project is also expected to contribute to conservation goals within New England through development of genetic markers for study of wild populations, increased knowledge about natural genetic resources including Amelanchier and Lonicera, and evaluation of risks associated with the recent promotion of a nonnative Lonicera for North American growers. This work also should contribute to diversification of horticultural landscapes in New England in a manner increasing horticultural expression of regional floristic identity. Within five years, the PI intends to establish a research program that attracts external funding, trains future scientists to consider questions at the intersection of horticulture and ecology, and addresses critical issues in horticulture for Maine.

Investigator: Peterson, B.

鲍苍颈迟:听School of Food and Agriculture

Termination Date:聽30-Sep-20

Horticulture, including the greenhouse industry, is vibrant and economically important. For example, in 2009, specialty crops were valued at $11.7 billion dollars according to the National Agricultural Statistics Service. Greenhouses allow specialty crop growers to grow in adverse climates and extend the growing season, which is particularly important in northern areas of the United States. One challenge, though, for greenhouse growers, is managing the resources needed to manage intensive production in these structures. More energy is needed is needed in the greenhouse compared with growing in the field, and it can be challenging to manage water and nutrient resources. The goal of this research is to find techniques to assist growers in managing resources in greenhouses sustainably. Specifically, in Maine, our goal is to assist growers in managing water in greenhouses sustainably. We will do this in two separate ways. First, we will help growers determine crop specific water guidelines which will help them to manage water in greenhouses which are typically filled with diverse species that have very different water needs. Second, we will help plant propagators in greenhouses reduce water consumption by developing a new propagation system that uses leaf wetness sensors to turn propagation systems on and off. This will not only save water, but should also improve the quality of cuttings by allowing growers to better control water in propagation.

Investigator: Burnett, S.

Unit: School of Food and Agriculture

Termination Date:聽30-Sep-18