6 reasons to go to Ag Careers Live

The Ag Careers Live event will help you pick the right career path in agriculture. Farmers Weekly outlines why you need to be there

Ag Careers Live is a truly unique event, providing information about career development in addition to guidance on agricultural education and the diverse range of job opportunities in the sector.

So whether you’re looking for your first job, thinking about changing role or just want to explore the options in the agricultural industry, this is the event for you.

Register for the Ag Careers Live event now

1. Hear from well-known speakers

There’s nothing more inspiring than hearing from people who have already been there and done it. With this in mind, a full programme of seminars is planned for the day, with leading industry speakers covering topics ranging from professional development to building a personal brand.

Trevor Tyrrell, CEO of Claas UK, will talk about the Claas Academy and the emphasis that the company places on training staff with a mix of practical activities and classroom-based instruction. Plus you can hear from NFYFC council chairman Chris Manley, who is also agriculture manager for poultry at Sainsbury’s.

2. Get educated

Studying an agricultural course is often the building block to a successful career in the sector – although it should also be noted that companies are often happy to recruit people from a science and engineering background too.

Landex, the body that represents land-based colleges, will be hosting the Career Advice Hub, where you can get all the answers you need on the educational path that might best suit you.

There will also be careers advisers from some of the very best land-based colleges and universities in attendance so you can quiz them on the options if you aren’t sure about what you want to study. You’ll be able to find out about apprenticeships, undergraduate, postgraduate and even PhD courses.

3. Meet a mentor

You’ll have the chance to benefit from tailored advice on your career options by visiting one of five mentors stationed at the Ag Careers Live Mentor Corner. This feature will operate on a first-come, first-served basis, with visitors signing up on the day for an allocated time slot.

The idea is that visitors will have the opportunity to sit down for a 20-minute, one-on-one session with a senior figure in the agricultural industry who can act as a sounding board and give advice on how to make the most of your career.

At the end of the day, each mentor will choose one lucky candidate to guide over the next 12 months.

Farmers Weekly’s editorial director Karl Schneider and Clarke Willis, group chief executive of Anglia Farmers, are two of the mentors.

4. Glimpse the future

Agriculture is a cutting edge business at the forefront of technological and scientific growth, with exciting opportunities for the right individuals. Sessions in the Innovation Theatre, championed by Rothamsted Research, will help you learn more about the skills required by the sector in the future.

Rothamsted Research is an internationally recognised centre of excellence and innovation, in support of agricultural productivity, crop protection and sustainable grazing livestock systems.

Professionals from leading organisations will discuss the importance of innovation, new technologies and entrepreneurship.

5. Get help with your CV

Learn how to turn your skills and experience into a powerful curriculum vitae at the CV Clinic, in association with Noble Futures Recruitment.

Gain invaluable insights on how to tackle job applications, tailor and format your CV and explore the dos and don’ts of CV preparation.

Discuss the role and rules of recruitment agencies with professional recruitment consultants and learn how to use social media networks such as LinkedIn for maximum career advantage.

6. Find a job

The day is a great opportunity to talk directly to Britain’s top employers, all of whom have vacancies to fill. They are looking for people with all levels of experience from new graduates to seasoned industry professionals. And not just those with an agricultural background.

You’ll be able visit the Jobs Wall, which will provide visitors with the latest career opportunities in the agricultural industry and the chance to apply for a number of vacancies.

Talk directly to employers, get careers advice or find a job in agriculture at Farmers Weekly’s Ag Careers Live on 10 November at the Ricoh Arena, Coventry.

If you are a student, graduate or just looking for your next job, our national event can help you progress your career.

For further information, and to register for free, visit the Ag Careers Live website.