Agriculture is more than just farming — it’s one of the largest and most diverse industries in the world! From animal science to environmental conservation, ag mechanics to food science, and plant production to ag business, there are hundreds of exciting career paths connected to agriculture.
Agriculture Communications
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Agriculture is a massive industry, and many major farming, ranching, and ag-related companies have entire departments focused on promoting their products and telling their story. Professionals in agricultural communications play a key role by working in marketing, public relations, journalism, and digital media. They help connect producers with consumers, raise awareness about agricultural issues, and share innovations in the industry. Common Careers Include:
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Agriculture Economics
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Agricultural economists play a critical role in managing and analyzing the financial side of the ag industry. They study market trends, assess risk, and help determine pricing for crops, livestock, and other ag products. Since the agricultural economy can shift quickly due to factors like droughts, floods, or food safety issues, these professionals help producers and businesses make informed decisions. Their work supports farmers, agribusinesses, and policymakers in planning for both short-term changes and long-term success. Common Careers Include:
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Agriculture Education
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Agricultural educators are responsible for teaching the next generation of ag leaders and advancing knowledge through research. While many work in high schools, colleges, and universities, ag educators are also found in industry settings, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations. They teach courses, develop curriculum, lead hands-on experiences, and conduct research that drives innovation in agriculture. Their work ensures that agriculture continues to grow through education, outreach, and science-based learning. Common Careers Include:
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Agriculture Engineering
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Agricultural engineering is a specialized field that combines engineering principles with agricultural practices to improve efficiency, safety, and sustainability. This area of agriculture focuses on designing and maintaining essential systems such as machinery, irrigation, buildings, waste management, and environmental controls. Professionals in this field often hold advanced degrees and use their expertise to solve complex challenges across the ag industry, helping ensure a safe and reliable food supply. Common Careers Include:
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Agronomy / Soil
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Agronomy is the science of soil management and crop production — the foundation of agriculture. Agronomists work to improve the quality, yield, and sustainability of crops by studying soil health, plant genetics, pest control, and nutrient management. While many advanced roles in agronomy require a college degree in agriculture, biology, or genetics, there are also opportunities in areas like crop advising and agricultural sales that may be accessible with hands-on experience and a high school diploma. Common Careers Include:
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Animal Science
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If you enjoy working with animals like pigs, cattle, sheep, or horses, a career in animal science might be for you! Animal science focuses on the health, nutrition, breeding, and management of livestock. Careers in this field range from hands-on roles like ranch hands and animal caretakers to more advanced positions such as veterinarians, animal nutritionists, and geneticists. This pathway is perfect for students who are passionate about animal care, science, and agriculture’s role in feeding the world. Common Careers Include:
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Food Science
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Producing crops and raising livestock is just the beginning — food scientists take it a step further by turning those resources into safe, high-quality products ready for consumers. This field focuses on food safety, nutrition, research, and product development to ensure everything we eat meets strict standards and tastes great, too. From creating new recipes to testing for contaminants, food science professionals play a vital role in every step between the farm and the fork. Common Careers Include:
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Agriculture Mechanics
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Behind every successful farm or ranch is a skilled team keeping everything running smoothly. Agricultural mechanics professionals take on the vital responsibility of maintaining the equipment, systems, and infrastructure that power the ag industry. From welding and construction to machinery repair and system design, these careers focus on safety, innovation, and hands-on problem solving. Ag mechanics is all about building and maintaining the tools that keep agriculture — and our country — moving forward. Common Careers Include:
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