The staff members on the trip are part of the University of Nebraska's Institute of Agriculture and National Resources, IANR. Many of the 23 educators are brand-new to the state and therefore, they are unfamiliar with the region. This trip has been designed to help them get their feet wet and make contacts around the state.

"I think it's great for people from Lincoln, University staff to get out here," said Kyle Shepherd, who is the manager of N-Corpe. "I think as a state we need to work together because there's issues that are across economics and agriculture."

Haley Steinkuhler, IANR's Media Specialist, believes trips like this open the door for potential collaboration projects in the future. She also adds the hope is that those on the trip will be able to incorporate what they learned on the tours into their classrooms this upcoming semester. NORTH PLATTE, Neb. --

Educators from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln were in North Platte Thursday morning to meet with officials from N-Corpe. They were given an early morning, 30 minute tour of the facilities.

N-Corpe officials say the tours usually last between three and six hours, but the faculty members were on a tight schedule, as they could not stay too long. However, despite their abbreviated visit, they made the most of their time and were grateful for the unique experience.

"I think it's helpful [to meet them]," said Destiny Mostek, who is an Extension Educator. "More importantly, I think it's interesting to know what is going on in our state."

The stop in North Platte is just part of the faculty group's itinerary, as they have spent several days touring the state. The numerous stops and tours allow trip attendees to explore and learn more about the agricultural opportunities in Nebraska outside of Lincoln and the University.

"We've toured different facilities that are associated with our university," Mostek said. "I think it's been an eye-opening [experience] for lots of these people."