Working in Agriculture Is the Smartest Career Move You Can Make
If you want a great career with a purpose, look no further than agriculture.
Farmers and agricultural professionals are in high demand, and it’s only going to get bigger as time goes on. Even better, you can make a career change into agriculture no matter what your background is.
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A career in farming or agriculture is one of the most in-demand professions at this moment. However, the industry is undergoing major change and has expanded significantly over the past few years.
Contrary to popular belief, working in farming or agriculture is not as limited as most people would assume. The industry has diversified, and there are hundreds of opportunities.
What Will Be Covered:
- Agriculture Careers Are In-Demand
- The Different Routes Into Agriculture
- Skills Required to Get Ahead in Agriculture
- Getting Started Today
Agriculture Careers Are In-Demand
This is a fact.
Data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics show that employment of agricultural and food scientists is projected to increase by 6% from 2024 to 2034, faster than the average for all occupations. It is important to note that this statistic only covers one area in the agriculture industry.
When you include positions in farm management and equipment, agriculture business, and management, the outlook looks even brighter.
There are thousands of openings, whether you want to work with crops and livestock or in agricultural technology and agribusiness. In addition to the increased need, many of the careers available in the industry offer job stability and good wages. Best of all, it will give you a sense of pride as you are contributing to an industry that is directly responsible for feeding people everywhere.
The Different Routes Into Agriculture
Did you know there are more than one route you can take into an agriculture career?
Farmers and ranchers need help, and it’s not always from their kids or family members. If you are considering a career in agriculture, you should visit H&R Agri-Power in Columbia to get started. You can learn more about the equipment available and the cutting-edge technology they use.
Professionals who choose to work in agriculture can specialise in dozens of different areas. Here are the main categories.
Production Agriculture
Farmers, ranchers, and agricultural managers fall under this classification. Production agriculture has always been a viable path and always will be. In this role, you will work directly with crops and livestock on a farm or ranch.
Agricultural Science
Food scientists, agronomists, and others who specialise in agriculture-focused scientific study make up this category. There are plenty of opportunities if you prefer to work in a research or laboratory setting.
Agribusiness and Management
If you want to work in business, agriculture may be for you. This career field includes jobs in marketing, sales, finance, supply chain management, and other business-related areas.
Agricultural Technology
It is an exciting time to work in agricultural technology. Many farms are using things like GPS, drones, and data analysis to make their work more efficient. If you are a tech-savvy person, this may be the best option for you.
Equipment and Machinery
Needless to say, all the agricultural equipment on a modern farm does not operate itself. Technicians and operators are needed to service and drive the equipment.
Skills Required to Get Ahead in Agriculture
You cannot just roll out of bed and get an agriculture job.
As stated earlier, the agriculture industry needs talent and offers job security. However, there are skills you will need to become a part of the industry. Most of these are learnable on the job or with training. Here are the must-haves that employers will want you to have.
Technical Knowledge
The more knowledge you can bring to an agriculture job, the better. Technical skills, including equipment and industry-related knowledge and even things like animal health, are all valuable.
It is important to note that while some agriculture jobs may require a four-year degree, others only need a certification or apprenticeship. Most will require hands-on, practical training.
Problem-Solving Skills
Farming, ranching, and other agriculture work is not always easy or as it is on television. Problems and unexpected challenges arise often and when you least expect them. This is why employers are always on the lookout for individuals that can troubleshoot and think on their feet.
Business Skills
In addition to problem-solving, other skills such as business management, communication, and people skills are in high demand.
Not every agricultural career will require you to know how to read a spreadsheet or talk to customers and vendors, but it will make you stand out from the crowd when you can.
Physical Ability
Working in agriculture, more often than not, means being outside in all types of weather and performing some physical labour.
This may not be for everyone, but for those who are up for the challenge, it can be an excellent career.
Communication Skills
Agriculture today is a team effort. You will need to be able to communicate with the people you work with on a daily basis, as well as those you need to meet or speak with during your job.
Agriculture is becoming more collaborative every year. Communication skills will become more important as you progress in your career.
Getting Started Today
Thinking about starting a career in agriculture?
It is easier than you may think, and it can lead to a fulfilling career. Here is how you can get started today.
Step 1: Identify your agricultural interest
The first step is to figure out what area of agriculture you are most interested in.
Do you prefer working outside and hands-on with animals and crops, or is the business and technology side of things more your thing?
Your answer will help you determine the next steps.
Step 2: Education
As mentioned above, education needs for agricultural careers vary.
Some only require a high school diploma or equivalent and some on-the-job training. Others will need an associate degree, bachelor’s degree, and even professional certifications and credentials.
Community colleges are a great option if you want to earn an education in agriculture without spending a lot of money on school. Community colleges typically offer hands-on training, which employers value.
Step 3: Experience
Experience is an important asset when working in agriculture.
Gain some hands-on experience either by interning or shadowing someone who is established in the industry, or apply for entry-level positions. Even part-time work on a local farm can be beneficial.
Step 4: Networking
There are always agriculture-related jobs available, and most of them are not posted.
Networking and building relationships with other agriculture professionals in your area will open doors that you may not even know about. Try to attend as many events and conferences in your area as possible. Join local or national agriculture associations and participate in forums online as well.
According to Purdue University research, from 2025-2030, an average of 104,766 agriculture-related job openings will occur each year. Therefore, it is not an exaggeration to say that there is no better time to get into agriculture.
Agriculture is not a stagnant industry.
With the introduction of new technologies and new regulations, and with market demands always changing, learning and keeping up with changes and developments in the industry is a must. Subscribe to industry magazines and publications, take extra courses, and stay on top of emerging trends and changes.
Final Thoughts
There will always be a need for agriculture.
People need food, and as the world’s population increases, the demand for skilled agricultural workers is only going to rise.
With the right training and a lot of hard work, it can also be a great career option for you. There is also a sense of pride you will get as an agriculture worker since you are directly helping to feed the world.
Is a career in farming, agriculture, or another part of the industry right for you? Only you can answer that, but now you have the information you need to make an informed decision.
If you decide it is the right path, then what are you waiting for? Go out there and get started.
