First Sustainable Agriculture Technicians Graduate in Mexico

The CIMMYT campus hosted the graduation ceremony for the first generation of Certified Technicians in Sustainable Agriculture (TC-AS) from the private sector, supported by Gruma and officially recognized by the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (SADER) for the 2024–2025 cycle.

During their training, participants implemented sustainable practices across more than 1,900ha. They joined the Latin American TC-AS Network, which now includes 529 technicians across three countries. Anabell Díaz, Training Coordinator, CIMMYT, noted the program strengthens local capacities and promotes sustainable practices that directly contribute to food security and competitiveness in Mexican agriculture.

The TC-AS certification model, developed by CIMMYT with institutional backing, aims to professionalize technical profiles supporting the transition toward more sustainable and competitive agriculture. Through a combined theoretical and practical process, technicians enhance their ability to diagnose, measure, and support field production processes, integrating sustainability, resilience, and profitability criteria.

“Each certified technician represents a new installed capacity in the field, able to generate local solutions and guide producers in adopting sustainable practices. This model creates a learning network that multiplies the impact of science and technical training for the benefit of Mexican agriculture,” said Díaz.

The program is officially endorsed by SADER, aligning it with national agricultural policies. By integrating science, training, and institutional support, the model directly contributes to Mexico’s food security and strengthens agriculture as a strategic pillar of national development.

Saúl Vázquez Pérez, Director General of Supplies, Gruma, highlighted the collaboration with CIMMYT and its potential impact on the maize value chain. “CIMMYT is a global reference in agricultural research and a key partner in our mission to feed the world responsibly. We aim for every maize grain reaching the table to result from sustainable, safe practices benefiting both producers and consumers,” he said.

Edith Robledo, Specialist in Integrated Development, CIMMYT, added that the public-private partnership demonstrates how collaboration can accelerate the adoption of sustainable practices, support food security, and strengthen resilience in Mexican agriculture.

Alejandra Guadalupe Sánche, TC-AS Representative, described the professional and personal transformation gained through the program. “Corn has shaped humanity. With technical knowledge, Gruma’s support, and the work of producers, we are ready to lead sustainable maize production in Mexico,” she stated.