Agricultural extension systems in the developing countries have, with few exceptions, failed to increase agricultural productivity adequately. Many of the change agent failures can be traced to their lack of credibility. They are not trusted or respected because farmers have learned that many are not technically competent. Good agricultural extension agents should be able to: (1) test and adapt new technology; (2) diagnose the farmer's production problems; and (3) teach the farmer how to correct problems and increase yields. In 1964, the International Rice Research Institute launched a series of rice production training programs to develop these competencies. Teams of rice workers from 24 nations have been prepared to adapt these approaches for training hundreds and thousands of their colleagues, who in turn teach farmers. These programs, which emphasize intensive on-the-paddy experience, have been successful because they are based on the precept "you can't teach what you don't know." A program to produce livestock production specialists is underway. Over the past two years, two crop production specialist training programs have been completed. Several obstacles must be overcome if this type of training is to spread: (1) the need is not readily admitted or recognized by decision makers or potential trainees; (2) returned trainees have difficulty organizing programs to train others; (3) more research must be conducted and decisions made about the training process. References are provided. (KM)