Prepping the next generation of agriculture industry leaders

With just two percent of the U.S. population responsible for food production, consumers are becoming less familiar with on-farm practices. This trend is causing confusion and questions about our management practices. At the extreme are organizations trying to end animal agriculture and sway public opinion to their side.

Given current consumer and anti-agriculture pressure, today’s students could arguably be one of the most important pieces of the industry’s future. They need to be prepared to navigate these unprecedented, industry-wide challenges and ready to help defend the people and benefits of their industry.

In my public relations role for an international animal health client, I see on a daily basis the issues and challenges facing the agriculture industry. But it wasn’t until I switched hats to serve as an advisory council member for the department of agricultural journalism and communications at Kansas State University that I realized there was so much more I could do to help support the industry that has shaped my interests and career — but is in the midst of a major identity crisis.

We all understand we need to do a better job amplifying the voices of farmers and ranchers to better educate the public on the vital role of farming in today’s world — and, we can all take a  step forward to help in many small ways. I have chosen to support the university and department that gave me so much during my tenure as a student. If you choose to do take a similar path, there are a number of ways you can help:

• Serve as a mentor to a student
• Offer to speak to a local high school or university classPass along a lead on a prospective student to a university or employer
• Participate in activities such as the Livestock Publications Council Office Bombardment day
• Review a student’s résumé
• Make a donation to a scholarship

A little bit of your time today might help a student jump start a career and possibly provide the industry with a new leader who will help shape the future success of the agriculture industry.

Think of it as an investment for today with great pay-back potential for tomorrow.