With the increasing globalization of the cotton market, there is a growing need for aspiring young people to carry the domestic cotton industry into the new millennium. The ginning sector plays a very important role in keeping the United States competitive in this new, demanding market. There are specialized programs for training the new influx of individuals in the ginning sector. Mississippi State University's Gin Management Technology curriculum and Samuel Jackson, Incorporated's Internship Program provide excellent preparation so that a young person can quickly emerge and excel in an industry where they are greatly needed.

I have had the opportunity to experience both of these programs first-hand over the last two years. As a Gin Management Technology major at Mississippi State, I have learned the skills needed to succeed in today's technologically advanced cotton gin. Mississippi State has also given me hands-on experience while working in the Microgin located on campus. I am currently involved in the Samuel Jackson Internship program and it has allowed me to work at over forty different gins all over the Mid-South. Besides the experience of working with so many gins, the Internship Program has equipped me with a thorough knowledge of moisture management in a cotton gin. Knowing how moisture management can have extremely beneficial or adverse effects in relation to the final product, I see this program as a priceless experience for any person striving to make an impact in the modern ginning industry.

My paper will contain some of my experiences while engaged in the previously mentioned programs. I would like to share some tips on becoming part of one or both of these programs. I will also include some knowledge that I have learned in my experiences in the field that may not be completely new, but no doubt very pertinent.