If your career is focused on some aspect of the broad field of agriculture or in other words… feeding your fellow humans – then this article is for you. I’m specifically referring to anyone in almost any developed country in the world that is working in any part of the ag-space as a technical specialist to manager AND aspires to advance into a more senior management or executive-level role.
Given the rapid pace of change and innovation in technology, the field of Agricultural Technology or AgTech for short is a booming career field that is still in a relatively early stage of development.
The simultaneous demands to optimize farming operations, increase yields and reduce costs are driving forces behind advancing further technological innovations. Within the AgTech space, the demand for digital agriculture is perhaps the highest. Digital agriculture refers to the use of digital technologies such as precision agriculture, Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), and data analytics. The digital agriculture space is expected to have a significant impact on the global food supply chain and is attracting substantial investment from venture capital firms and agribusiness companies.
As the digital ag-sector continues to grow, there is an increasing need for managers with expertise in technology, data analytics, and relevant areas of agriculture such as agronomy, livestock and poultry production and crop protection. Organizations within this space are seeking ambitious management talent that can develop and execute digital strategies, navigate complex regulatory environments, and drive innovation in production operations.
If you think advancing your career in AgTech is something you would like to consider, then it’s also important to understand the sources of growth and development in AgTech. While there are numerous countries that are encouraging and nurturing growth in AgTech, there are some clear front runners. Regardless of what country you are located in, you will likely encounter AgTech products and services originating from the United States, Israel, the Netherlands, China and Brazil. Here is a summary of each:
United States: The United States has been a leader in AgTech investment due to its large agricultural industry and advanced technology sector. The government has invested in research and development of new technologies to increase yields, reduce waste, and improve sustainability. Private companies have also invested heavily in AgTech startups.
Israel: Israel is a global leader in AgTech due to its arid climate and limited water resources. The country has developed technologies such as drip irrigation, precision agriculture, and vertical farming that have been adopted worldwide. The Israeli government has also provided funding and support for AgTech startups.
Netherlands: The Netherlands has become a leader in AgTech due to its limited land resources and focus on sustainable agriculture. The country has developed technologies such as indoor farming, aquaponics, and precision agriculture that are environmentally friendly and efficient. The Dutch government has also provided funding and support for AgTech startups.
China: China has made significant investments in AgTech to feed its large population and improve food security. The government has invested in technologies such as genetically modified crops, drones for precision agriculture, and biotechnology to increase yields and reduce waste.
Brazil: Brazil has invested in AgTech to increase yields and reduce deforestation in the Amazon rainforest. The government has provided funding for research on sustainable agriculture and has supported startups that develop technologies to improve soil health, reduce water usage, and increase yields.
You do not have to be physically located in one of the aforementioned countries to benefit from developing your career in the AgTech space. For example, I’m located in Guadalajara, Mexico where there is a large presence of AgTech-related companies as well as government support for AgTech. The Mexican government has been very proactive by establishing several AgTech incubators and accelerators to support AgTech startups across the country plus Mexico is seen as a desirable place for AgTech companies to grow in Mexico’s expansive agricultural economy. Some notable examples of foreign AgTech investment in Mexico include the Brazilian company AgroSmart which supplies climate intelligence data, the Israeli company Netafim which provides precision irrigation and a digital platform to measure and apply water, the Mexican holding company Orbia which has portfolio companies with the digital tools to support various aspects of sustainable agriculture. Each of these companies have a global footprint which translates into a need for management and leadership talent wherever they are established.
If you find yourself in that relatively early to mid-career range in an ag-related field and you are aspiring to be more upwardly mobile, I invite you to consider the following strategies:
1. Develop Your Technical Skills: AgTech is a highly technical field, and it’s essential to stay up-to-date on the latest trends and technologies. Consider taking courses or attending conferences to develop your technical expertise and keep your knowledge current.
2. Expand Your Network: Building a strong professional network is essential for advancing your career in any field. Attend industry events, join professional associations, and connect with other AgTech professionals on social media platforms such as LinkedIn. These connections can provide valuable insights and opportunities for advancement.
3. Seek Out Mentorship: Finding a mentor can be incredibly beneficial for your career growth. Look for someone in a leadership position who can offer guidance and support as you navigate your career path. Your mentor can also help you identify areas for improvement and provide advice on how to overcome challenges.
4. Develop Your Leadership Skills: As you move up the ladder in the AgTech industry, leadership skills become increasingly important. Take on leadership roles in projects or teams to gain experience and demonstrate your leadership potential. Seek feedback from colleagues and supervisors to identify areas for improvement.
5. Identify Growth Opportunities: Look for opportunities to take on new challenges or responsibilities within your current role or company. This could involve leading a new project, taking on a management role, or developing new products or services. Be proactive in identifying these opportunities and demonstrating your ability to succeed in them.
6. Consider Advanced Education: Pursuing advanced education such as an MBA or other relevant degree can be an excellent way to gain the skills and credentials needed for upward mobility. Additionally, advanced degrees can help you develop a deeper understanding of the AgTech industry and provide you with a competitive advantage. In summary, developing technical skills, expanding your network, seeking mentorship, developing leadership skills, identifying growth opportunities, and pursuing advanced education are all strategies that mid-career AgTech managers can use to be more impactful and add value to their employers and customer base and ultimately enjoy the benefits of upward mobility.
– Xochilt Acosta
Xochilt Acosta is a Senior Recruiter with The QualiFind Group where she supports clients in a broad range of the agribusiness, AgTech and food value chain.