Career Opportunities in Agriculture
‘We need professionals that can stand up for the agriculture industry to protect the quality of life for our growing society.’
By Lori Dudley

Ever thought of a career in agriculture sciences or natural resources? This could be the ticket to finding a career that interests you. Although, traditional agriculture careers are directly related to farming and ranching, did you know that only 10 percent of Americans are involved in traditional agriculture? If this is the case then what other careers are available in the agricultural industry? Well, there are numerous careers in the field of agriculture that might interest you. Agricultural careers are diverse and include agribusiness management, agricultural and natural resources, parks, recreations, and tourism resources, horticulture, food science, and fisheries/wildlife.

Research shows that there are approximately 22 million people who work in agriculture related fields here in the United States. Our society has changed drastically from the days of covered wagons and plow farming. Today’s agriculture offers over 200 rewarding and challenging careers. Careers range from a land use planner, food scientist, renewable energy, crop producer, computer graphics technologist or an ecotourism specialist.

Perfect Time. The ‘USDA Employment Opportunity Outlook for 2010-2015’ notes that 5 percent more college graduates will be needed with agricultural sciences and natural resources expertise. There will be 54,400 annual openings for college graduates in agricultural sciences and natural resources; 74 percent of jobs in business and science, 15 percent in agriculture and forestry production and 11 percent in education, communication, and government. This is a perfect time for you to think about a career in this field with so many job openings.

Individuals can find a challenging career in the many different sectors of the agriculture field. From food sciences to natural resource management, these fields give individuals the opportunity for all types of interests. Whatever it may be that you are interested in, you can find a career in agriculture. With the world’s population increasing to over 5 billion in the last 100 years, issues related to food and fiber production are becoming more and more important. Job openings in this industry will be at an all-time high with the need of producing and providing products to consumers.

Trained Professional. How do I become eligible for a career in agriculture? A number of colleges and universities provide degrees in agriculture. Majors range from agribusiness/economics, communications, animal science, landscape architecture, food science, plant and soil science, and natural resources management. You’ll be able to find which major will fit in with your future career goal. You preferred degree will give you the knowledge and skills that you will need to be a trained professional in any field of agriculture.

Now more than ever, individuals need to understand the importance for the sustainability and protection for our natural resources. With population growth at an all-time high, our society needs skilled professionals to produce and market products to our citizens. These individuals with backgrounds in agriculture and related fields will be primarily responsible for the ability to meet the challenges facing our world. With city limits reaching out to farm-land, there will be less and less land for crop production.