At Veterans IN Farming, we’re always looking to share opportunities that help veterans and transitioning service members build meaningful agricultural careers. One outstanding initiative doing just that is the Tennessee AgVets Opportunities on FarmLand (TN AgVOLs) Program.
TN AgVOLs connects veterans and service members with disabilities to farms across Tennessee for hands-on internships that provide real-world experience, mentorship, and practical agricultural training. Each participant is matched with a host farm or agribusiness that fits their skills and interests—whether that’s livestock, specialty crops, or mixed operations.
The program is made possible through a partnership of Tennessee agricultural organizations, including the Appalachian Resource Conservation & Development Council, the University of Tennessee, Tennessee State University, the Farmer Veteran Coalition of Tennessee, and the Tennessee Department of Agriculture’s Homegrown by Heroes program. Together, these partners ensure that veterans entering agriculture have the technical assistance, education, and support they need to succeed.
Goats Unlimited – Ashland City, TN
Run by Dr. An Peischel, a nationally recognized goat expert with more than 40 years of experience, Goats Unlimited is a Kiko meat goat operation focused on breeding, meat production, and sustainable land management. Interns gain experience in animal husbandry, nutrition, artificial insemination, and pasture management, along with exposure to the business side of livestock production.
Jordan Farms – Indian Mound, TN
Owned by veteran farmer Charley Jordan, Jordan Farms is a floriculture business specializing in a wide range of cut flowers. Interns learn about horticultural production, equipment operation, agribusiness management, and market preparation—ideal for those interested in specialty crops or agritourism.
Louise Bluffs Farm – Southside, TN
Louise Bluffs Farm is a veteran-owned cow/calf and hay operation run by Jed White. With more than a decade of experience in livestock production, White provides training in commercial beef operations, forage management, hay production, equipment maintenance, and overall farm management.
These internships offer veterans an opportunity to explore farming as a potential career path, gain practical experience, and build relationships with experienced mentors who understand both military service and the agricultural lifestyle.
If you know a veteran or transitioning service member who would like to learn more, please share the TN AgVOLs program website with them.