Agricultural Science and Leadership Careers

Education

• Secondary schools
• Colleges and universities
• Vocational and technical schools

• Obtain teacher certification for public school positions.
• Plan to earn a master’s degree to work in college student affairs or university administration. Earn a Ph.D. to teach at the university level.
• Develop excellent writing and speaking skills.
• Learn to work well with all types of people and build strong interpersonal skills.
• Seek leadership positions in campus organizations related to agricultural science, natural resources, or agricultural education such as Future Farmers of America (FFA).
• Gain practical experience in the area of agriculture.
• Work with youth through volunteer positions or summer jobs with camps, 4-H programs, scouts, YMCA’s, YWCA’s, and other nonprofit organizations.

Extension

• Cooperative Extension System (national)
• Extension services within states

• Gain experience working with children and adults of varying ages.
• Participate in organizations such as 4-H or FFA and seek leadership roles.
• Develop strong communication skills, particularly public speaking and group presenting, because extension agents must effectively deliver information to people.
• Take courses in economics and community development.
• Demonstrate high energy and good problem solving abilities.
• Be willing to live in rural communities and to travel within the county. Prepare to work some evenings and weekends.
• Earn a master’s degree to qualify for higher level positions.

Agricultural Leadership

• Agribusiness firms
• Production industries
• Food retailers and wholesalers
• Food processors
• Farm equipment manufacturers
• Trade and breed associations
• Insurance firms
• Financial institutions
• Market analysis firms
• Consulting firms
• Local, state and federal government including:
  • Forestry Service
  • Department of Agriculture
  • National and state parks and reserves
• Nonprofit organizations
• Professional associations
• Youth organizations
• Foundations, museums, nature centers, zoos

• Choose an area of interest, e.g. business, government, or community development, and gain relevant experience through internships, volunteer positions, or summer jobs.
• Get involved in campus organizations and student professional associations such as Alpha Zeta agricultural honor society. Assume leadership roles.
• Learn to work effectively in teams, but also develop strong leadership qualities.
• Become a strong communicator and learn to relate well with people from all backgrounds.
• Develop physical stamina, resourcefulness, and outdoor skills for some informal education positions.

Agricultural Science/Communication

• Local, state and federal government including:
  • Forestry Service
  • Department of Agriculture
  • National and state parks and reserves
• Professional associations
• Agribusiness firms
• Financial institutions
• Youth organizations
• Foundations, museums, nature centers, zoos
• Nonprofit organizations
• Wildlife organizations
• Agricultural magazines and websites
• Newspapers and other publications
• Farm radio and television stations
• Advertising and public relations firms
• Consulting firms

• Earn a minor or take additional courses in areas such as journalism, advertising, or graphic design.
• Build strong communication skills, both written and oral.
• Work for campus or local newspapers, radio, or television stations.
• Participate in related student organizations and seek leadership positions. Volunteer to write newsletters or maintain the website.
• Get involved with the Agricultural Communicators of Tomorrow.
• Gain relevant experience through internships, summer jobs, or volunteer positions.
• Learn to work well with various computer programs including desktop publishing and web design.
• Be willing to relocate for greater opportunities.