Across the country, over 22.1 million individuals are a part of the agricultural workforce, which amounts to nearly 11% of total U.S employment. This may seem small in scope, but the types of careers in agriculture are vast and include much more than the conventional sows, cows, and plows. At its core, agriculture is a business based on continuing innovation and technology, yet rooted in deep tradition, with many careers focusing on the people who continue to grow the food, fuel, and fiber that sustain our communities.
One of the largest misconceptions about agriculture is that the careers within the industry are limited to production roles. Modern-day agriculture is also powered by communication, strategy, education, finance, and advocacy.
Behind every crop harvested or animal raised is a web of individuals contributing their unique piece into the larger puzzle that allows our agriculture and food systems to thrive. For individuals who excel at working with people, there are countless careers to find a fit in this puzzle. Account managers provide customers with updates and product upgrades on equipment, seeds, and more. Public relation specialists create and maintain a positive brand. Safety directors manage health, safety, and environmental programs to reduce the risk of accidents. Talent acquisition leads assist brands in hiring quality individuals to influence the future of the company.
Even within the scope of production agriculture, people-focused jobs exist. Farm managers coordinate teams and improve efficiency, and roles within community engagement strengthen relationships between producers and consumers. These relationships are essential to transparency and trust within local food systems. Outside of production agriculture, there are over two hundred different careers that work to support, strengthen, and advance the agricultural industry.
For individuals looking to change careers into an agricultural field, reflect on the tasks completed in your current role; many of these skills and tasks directly correspond to the jobs completed within an agricultural career and can be highlighted on a resume. For individuals looking to start their career entering an agricultural field, a strengths inventory can help find the perfect career fit within the agricultural sector.
Simply put, even if plants and animals are not your strength, there is not only a place for you, but there is a strong need for you.
To explore different career paths in agriculture, and take the agriculture career finder quiz, go to https://agexplorer.ffa.org