The training program, building on six previous editions, has been a resounding success. Under the direction of Juan Capel and Francisco Portero, this edition of the UAL Summer Courses adopted a workshop format, emphasizing site visits and updating knowledge in genomics, gene editing, and plant breeding. Challenges in developing new crops were addressed through essential public-private collaboration, with significant support from the University of Almería, the Official College of Agricultural Technical Engineers of Almería, and various sector companies.
Juan Capel explained the format change, driven by high demand and content repetition in previous years. "The direction of the Summer Courses suggested we move to a workshop format, making it more dynamic and participatory," he stated. The course's core remains the same: "genetic improvement, Almería, and the contribution of agricultural technical engineers and agronomists to our province's development." He recalled that the initial editions were biennial and highlighted the support from the Official College of Agricultural Technical Engineers of Almería as "the foundation of this course."
Collaboration was highlighted from ANOVE (National Association of Plant Breeders), Geslive, IFAPA, and organizations like La Mayora and the Center for Biotechnology and Plant Genomics (CBGP). Companies such as Enza Zaden España, Syngenta, and Rijk Zwaan Ibérica also participated. A visit was made to Natural Green, a seed company managed by a UAL alumnus, to explore industry innovations. Capel noted that, unlike other courses inviting external speakers, this one primarily draws from the University of Almería's environment, public bodies, and local businesses.
Rafael Lozano, a consistent speaker over the seven editions, presented research from his group on tomato varieties more resistant to water stress and high temperatures. "Whenever there's a problem, scientists are trying to solve it," he affirmed, emphasizing the work of breeders in developing new resilient varieties. He pointed out that professionals in the theoretical field of genomics are often surprised when they see the reality of technology in greenhouses and how genetic improvement must adapt to it.
The mission is "with the support of genetics, to produce what we need," enabling Almería to be "the garden of Europe" thanks to varieties adapted to its climatic conditions. Lozano described genetic breeders as individuals living "with a lot of stress," constantly anticipating future problems like pest outbreaks, citing the example of the 'rugoso' tomato virus.
Francisco Portero, co-director of the course and technical secretary of COITAAL (representing 1,500 members), positively assessed the annual collaboration with the UAL. "It's a very practical way, visiting companies and bringing top-level professionals who offer a daily view of what's happening on the ground," he noted. The course also serves to attract talent to the Agricultural Technical Engineering degree, as "the sector increasingly demands highly qualified engineers." Collaboration with Ícaro, the UAL's Employment Service, helps raise the profession's profile.
Portero encouraged people to study this profession, highlighting its diverse career paths, from field consulting to project management, quality control, and public service roles. This edition concluded with a positive balance, full enrollment, and high student satisfaction. Companies were very engaged, sharing insights they might not typically reveal due to competition, providing access to "very good techniques and knowledge." The program was slightly adjusted for "more personalized attention" to attendees.
