By Andi Anderson
As the new school year begins, many students and parents are considering future career paths. While farming is often associated with agriculture, the field offers a wide range of career opportunities beyond traditional farming and ranching.
Agriculture is essential to our daily lives, providing food, clothing, and even fuel. Yet, with less than 2% of Americans directly involved in farming, it’s important to explore the many other career options within agriculture.
Agriculture-related careers are diverse and rewarding, supporting the industry in various ways. Agribusiness management, for example, focuses on the managerial aspects of food production and distribution. Careers in this area include roles such as commodity trader, agricultural production specialist, and purchasing manager.
Another exciting field is agricultural and natural resources communications, where professionals work in journalism, public relations, and advertising. Job titles in this category include marketing communications manager, district sales representative, and reporter.
For those interested in science and education, agriscience offers opportunities to work in agricultural and natural resource industries. Career paths here include agriscience educator, extension educator, and human resources director.
Resource development and management is another key area, focusing on policy analysis, planning, and program management. Careers in this field include environmental analyst, solid waste coordinator, and water resources specialist.
Horticulture is a vibrant field that combines science and art to cultivate fruits, flowers, vegetables, and ornamental plants. Careers in horticulture include retail manager, landscape designer, and nursery grower.
Food safety is a critical area within agriculture, focusing on the development of new foods, production methods, and ensuring a safe food supply. Careers in food safety include food technician, laboratory technician, and quality control manager.
These examples are just a glimpse of the over 200 degrees and career paths available in agriculture.
With 22 million people working in agriculture-related fields, there are countless opportunities to support America’s farmers and contribute to the industry’s growth and sustainability. Exploring these diverse careers can lead to a fulfilling and impactful profession within the agricultural sector.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-poike
Categories: Ohio, Education, General