Ohio 4-H Career Cards Guide Youth Toward Ag Jobs

By Andi Anderson

As Ohio marks In-Demand Jobs Week from May 5–9, the state’s youth are gaining tools to prepare for future careers in agriculture through Ohio State University Extension’s 4-H Career Cards.

Developed by the College of Food, Agricultural, and Environmental Sciences (CFAES), the cards help connect youth with high-demand roles in Ohio’s growing ag sector.

Ohio 4-H, active in all 88 counties, uses the cards to educate young people on career paths ranging from food science and precision agriculture to farm management and agribusiness.

These tools are designed to align students’ interests with job opportunities in fields currently seeking skilled workers.

“4-H professionals in each county have access to a set of the Ag Career Cards,” said Leslie Cooksey, a 4-H Youth Development Educator. “They can use them to help youth understand career options and build skills employers value.”

Each card features job descriptions, required education or training, expected salary ranges, and key skills. For example, the Agronomy and Crop Sciences card introduces crop scouts who help farmers protect crops from pests, while the Grain Elevator Manager card explains grain storage and shipping.

Educators often combine the cards with the Real Money. Real World. curriculum to simulate real-life budgeting and career planning. This allows youth to explore job choices, assess education paths, and weigh financial responsibilities.

“The cards encourage youth to think realistically,” said Cooksey. “If a student doesn’t enjoy math, they may avoid accounting. Or they may find a great career that doesn’t require a four-year degree.”

By showcasing a wide range of opportunities, the 4-H Career Cards help young people see their place in agriculture—one of Ohio’s most vital industries. Interested programs can purchase the cards and accompanying resources through the OSU Extension Store.

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