Skill shortage alert in U.S. Agri-Food sector, study shows

Mar 28, 2024

By Farms.com

AgCareers.com's recent survey casts a spotlight on the skill gaps that challenge the U.S. agri-food industry's growth. The research underscores an urgent need for skills such as problem-solving, organization, and teamwork, pinpointing these as areas where current and aspiring employees fall short.

This gap is most pronounced among new graduates, with a mere 18% possessing the necessary work-ready skills upon entering the job market, a stark contrast to the 76% readiness rate of experienced professionals. This indicates a crucial area of focus for educational institutions and training programs aiming to prepare individuals for this dynamic sector.

The survey also dives into specific knowledge areas such as sustainability, data science, and food science, with agronomy and precision agriculture emerging as fields requiring immediate attention due to their significant knowledge gaps.

With these insights, AgCareers.com aims to foster a well-equipped workforce that can meet the evolving demands of the agriculture and food industries. The full survey report, available for free download, serves as a vital tool for educators, employers, and policy makers dedicated to closing these gaps and propelling the sector forward.

Video: New Solution Powers Efficient Pork Growth

Alltech has introduced Olerix, an innovative phytogenic blend created to promote growth and feed efficiency in pigs. Through a proprietary coating process, the bioactive blend of phytogenic compounds used in Olerix is designed to outlast the manufacturing process, ensuring consistent outcomes from feed to finish. The result is a high-impact efficiency solution that provides consistent support for gut health, feed efficiency, immune function and growth performance. Olerix is backed by validated trials conducted under modern pork production conditions.

“As the industry searches for technology to drive profitability forward in a more sustainable manner, we’re thrilled to join that effort with our Olerix technology,” said Mark Hulsebus, general manager for U.S. pork at Alltech. “Our work in this phytogenic space is yielding very encouraging results, and we’re excited to make this new opportunity available to pork producers focused on optimizing feed efficiency and growth rates.”

“Olerix represents the next generation of phytogenic technology — combining feed efficiency, livability and immune support into a practical commercial solution producers can implement today,” said Andy Rash, U.S. monogastric director at Alltech.