Pictured are students who attended the workshop. AgriFutures Australia hopes to inspire the next generation of agriculture professionals and highlight the exciting career opportunities in agriculture from biotechnicians and marine scientists to agricultural engineers and economists.
AgriFutures Australia and Training Services NSW hosted the tech-savvy, socially minded Gen Zs at inaugural Ag Industry Days, a new event showcasing the diverse career opportunities in Australia’s agricultural industry.
At the one-day workshops, which took place in Albury/Wodonga on 21st June and Wagga Wagga on 22nd June, Year 9 and 10 school students engaged with some of the most dynamic young professionals at the forefront of innovation in agriculture. They also got the opportunity to visit local businesses that are transforming the industry
AgriFutures Australia Manager, Workforce Delivery, Abbey O’Callaghan said the workshops respond to recommendations from a recent community perceptions and worker experiences report that included broadening the conversation about roles in the industry and showcasing new technology as a selling point.
“Some of the world’s biggest challenges are directly related to agriculture: food security, sustainability and climate change. The Ag Industry Days will challenge perceptions of the agriculture industry and galvanise the next generation of agricultural innovators.”
“Importantly, we really want to inspire students to embrace STEM and agricultural subjects as they progress into their senior school years.”
Attendees were challenged to answer the question ‘How do we rethink agriculture?’ Back in the classroom, participating students refined their answer and submitted their ‘pitch’ to AgriFutures Australia. The responses will offer AgriFutures Australia important insights into the perspectives of young people.