Agriculture plays a major role globally, yet most employers still struggle to find qualified candidates that want to work in the industry – whether it is in retail or on the farm.
With unemployment at the lowest it has been since 1969, coupled with the aging workforce, we have found ourselves in the middle of a major talent war. As a company, we are consistently trying to find creative, out-of-the-box ways to attract and retain talent.
We have also had to evolve and adjust to the changing times. The hard truth we are all facing: baby boomers are retiring, much of generation x has avoided agriculture (farm crisis), and millennials and generation z have completely different priorities.
According to AgCareers.com, here are a few reasons that agriculture is needed now more than ever and why you should choose an agricultural career:
1. Population is Increasing
By 2050 the world’s population is projected to hit 9 billion people. To be able to feed and clothe the world, the population is going to rely heavily on agriculture. With that comes the need for new technology, hard workers, creative minds, and college graduates that are ready to get into the workforce and support this ever-changing industry.
2. “New” Generation of Agriculture
Baby boomers are in the primary agricultural leadership roles, but they are retiring at vast rates, leaving many positions un-filled. Employers are having difficulties finding the right talent to put into these positions and 60% of them are shifting their focus to recruiting college graduates.
3. Job Diversity
Within the last 20 years, agriculture has expanded and become so diverse, giving job seekers a wide variety of careers to choose from. There are significant jobs in production, economics, marketing, agribusiness, technology, sales, finance, microbiology, precision, communications, and much more.
4. Shortage of College Graduates in Agriculture
The truth of the matter is, there just are not enough people going into an agricultural related program of study causing a shortage of qualified job seekers.
5. Industry Growth
Since the industry is growing at such a fast pace, there is high demand for qualified job seekers in every aspect of agriculture. The U.S. Department of Labor projects significant growth in selected food, renewable energy, and environmental jobs.
6. Technology Advancements
Agricultural technologies are constantly evolving to help improve productivity. With the new technology, comes a need for job seekers with the right education to be able to work with and develop the technology that will continue to shape the industry.
7. Increased Salary
To remain competitive and to secure the best talent in the industry, employers have been consistently increasing salaries. They have also offered better benefit packages to retain employees. Furthermore, qualified talent is being promoted now faster than any other generation has before.
8. Rewarding
Working in an agricultural related field is rewarding. You get the peace of mind knowing that you are making a positive impact on those around you. People that have careers in agriculture are passionate about what they do and want to see the industry be successful and prosperous. It’s rewarding to know that by working in an ag-related career, you are making a difference. Plus, the industry is an easy sector to network and make lasting connections with others in your field.
Ready to pursue a career in Ag? Come join our team: https://crystalvalley.coop/careers/join-our-team
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