Agriculture employs people both on and off the farm.
As of early 2011, agricultural commodity prices were rising, planting projections increasing and rural incomes improving. The times seem favorable for a career in agriculture. There are many phases of food production from farm to plate, and many roles to play in the process. The business of agriculture employs people of all temperaments and talents. Finding the right niche comes from surveying the available vocations.
Production
At the very heart of agriculture is the farmer. He prepares soil, plants, cultivates and harvests crops for sale. Working his own land or that leased from another, the farmer may or may not employ farmhands to assist in operations. Often the farmer's family staffs the farm, operating a tractor and various soil-intensive implements. Farmers may also raise livestock, requiring different skill sets, such as rudimentary veterinary care, hygiene maintenance, waste disposal or recycling, feeding and housing. Whether crops or livestock -- in many cases, both -- the farmer has the options of contracting with food companies, selling his harvest independently for the best offer or marketing through a cooperative. An alternate career for those with a farmer's aptitudes is that of a farm manager. Corporately owned farms will hire a manager for a salary to supervise the operation, but this employee need not be engaged in the business of bringing the harvest to market since the farm owner is usually a food company.
Research
Agricultural history tells the story of how people, over time, have harvested greater yields on ever-shrinking parcels of land. This increased production per acre is the result of discovery and analysis. Agronomists, for example, examine the dynamics of the soil and crop relationship, and how the ecology affects plant growth. They may work for universities, government agencies or seed companies. On the other hand, animal physiologists study the anatomy and function of livestock breeds in order to determine optimal feed composition and reproduction cycles. Like agronomists, animal physiologists are employed in educational and government settings. They can also find work with pharmaceutical manufacturers.
Communication
Farmers have a need to keep up on the latest developments in agriculture. Advances in research, new government regulations and commodity price fluctuations are all of interest to growers and rural communities. Agricultural journalists specialize in writing or broadcasting on issues relevant to the production of food and fiber. Jobs in this field can be found at print publications, television and radio stations, commodity organizations and related industries such as farm machinery. Similarly, agricultural photographers take still shots of crops, livestock, farms and rural community functions. These photographs often accompany articles in newspapers and magazines, or are posted online. Some agricultural photographers produce portraits suitable for framing and sale. Otherwise their career options reflect those of journalists.
Education
Vocational agricultural education encompasses scientific, business and practical knowledge. People engaged in this profession serve as gateways to agricultural careers for inquiring students. Employed at vocational-technical high schools and community colleges, these teachers often partner with state Future Farmers of America chapters when designing their curricula. Education does not end with a diploma, however. Land-grant universities in every state oversee extension services that provide continuing education to farmers, related businesses and rural residents. Often referred to as "county agents," the specialists who staff these agencies are trained in a variety of agricultural sub-specialties, sometimes doubling as faculty at their sponsoring universities. They provide advice and direction on all types of issues, such as crop rotation, manure storage, sustainable agriculture and wildlife management.
Tags: agricultural photographers, animal physiologists, crops livestock, employs people