The Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resource Industry Shortage

The agriculture sector plays a pivotal role in the global economy by providing food, fiber, and raw materials essential for our daily lives. However, the industry faces a significant challenge: a shortage of agriscience professionals. This shortage results in a promising career outlook for those willing to venture into this field. Today, it is more critical than ever for students to learn about agriculture and agriscience to prepare for a promising future and support the world’s food supply and economy.

The Agriscience Professional Shortage

Agriscience, a branch of science that deals with the application of principles and practices of agriculture, is currently facing a shortage of skilled professionals. There are several drivers for this shortage:

Aging Workforce

Many professionals in the agriculture sector are nearing retirement, and there are not enough young professionals to replace them.

Urbanization

As more people move to cities, there is a declining interest in agriculture-related careers, leading to a smaller pool of qualified candidates.

Technological Advancements

The agriculture sector is becoming more technologically advanced, requiring professionals with specialized skills that are currently in short supply.

Global Food Demand

The global population is increasing, and with it, the demand for food. This requires more professionals to manage and optimize food production.

A Promising Career Outlook for Agriscience Professionals

The shortage of agriscience professionals has resulted in a promising career outlook for those interested in this field. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of agricultural and food scientists is projected to grow 6% from 2019 to 2029, faster than the average for all occupations. Agriculture is a part of every state’s economy, and below are some examples of states that are major agricultural producers and among the states with the highest number of career opportunities (and challenges that need to be solved!).

• In California, for example, the agriculture sector contributes significantly to the state’s economy. It is the leading producer of fruits, vegetables, and nuts in the United States. However, the state faces a shortage of agriscience professionals in areas such as pest management, soil science, and agricultural engineering. This shortage presents a tremendous opportunity for individuals with the right skills and education.
• Florida is a major producer of citrus fruits, sugarcane, and vegetables. However, the state faces challenges related to pest management, water usage, and crop diseases. There is a significant demand for agriscience professionals specializing in plant pathology, entomology, and irrigation management.
• Wisconsin is the leading producer of dairy products in the United States. However, the dairy industry is facing challenges related to animal health, nutrition, and sustainable farming practices. There is a demand for professionals with expertise in dairy science, animal nutrition, and sustainable agriculture.
• Illinois is a major producer of corn, soybeans, and swine. The state faces challenges related to soil erosion, water quality, and sustainable livestock management. There is a demand for professionals with expertise in soil science, water resource management, and livestock production.
• Washington is the leading producer of apples and cherries in the United States. The state faces challenges related to pest management, water usage, and climate change. There is a demand for professionals with expertise in horticulture, water resource management, and climatology.

These are just a few examples of the many opportunities available across the United States for agriscience professionals. The shortage of skilled professionals in these areas presents a promising career outlook for individuals with the right skills and education.

The Need for Agriscience Education

Raising Awareness

Many students may not be aware of the career opportunities available in the agriscience field. Offering agriscience courses can raise awareness and interest in this critical industry.

Develop Skills

Agriscience courses can help students develop specialized skills required in the agriculture sector, such as plant genetics, soil science, and agricultural technology.

Prepare for Further Education

For students interested in pursuing a career in agriscience, high school courses can provide a solid foundation for further education in college or vocational schools.

Explore Potential Agriscience Career Options

The shortage of agriscience professionals presents a promising career outlook for individuals interested in this field. High schools have a critical role to play in addressing this shortage by offering agriscience courses that raise awareness, develop specialized skills, and prepare students for further education. By doing so, we can support the future of our food supply and economy, as well as provide promising career prospects for the next generation.

Check out our College Readiness and Career Readiness blog to learn more about the best strategies to prepare your students for high school, college, and beyond.