AgriCulture Live Episode 7 with guest Alex Hardie from Harper Adams University - "Attracting New Talent Into Agriculture"

03/19/24 • 44 min

Embark on a journey into the heart of "Attracting New Talent Into Agriculture" with Rebekah Shields of Agricultural Recruitment Specialists, and our distinguished guest Alex Hardie from the School of Sustainable Food and Farming at Harper Adams University. Together, we uncover the university's pivotal role in nurturing a new wave of agri-professionals ready to revolutionize food systems for a better tomorrow. Expect to be enlightened by Alex's expert insights on Harper Adams’ innovative educational approaches that intertwine rigorous academics with hands-on experience, producing graduates with enviable employment prospects. We traverse the evolving landscape of agriculture, emphasizing the need for fresh talent in this essential yet often overlooked field. Delve into the diverse background of today's agricultural students and how Harper Adams is extending its reach into urban environments, ensuring that the future of farming is as rich in opportunity as it is in tradition.
In this episode, you'll grasp the indispensable connections between governments, educational institutions, and industry lies in reshaping the allure of agriculture, inspiring a new generation to sow the seeds of their careers in this sector. We tackle the complex challenges of climate change and sustainability, dissecting how the agri-food industry can transition to more environmentally friendly practices while still thriving. At the heart of our conversation lies a vision of agriculture education that transcends the traditional, embracing digital platforms and broadening its inclusion within the school syllabus. Listen as we chart a course for agriculture that marries innovation with ecological stewardship, inviting newcomers to partake in an exhilarating era of growth and transformation in farming.

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AgriCulture Live Episode 6 with guest & Nuffield Scholar - Andrew Sincock from Agriton - “Low Input Farming Systems”

Explore the fusion of tradition and innovation in agriculture with Cornish farmer and agricultural director Andrew Sincock, our distinguished guest who brings his wealth of experience as a Nuffield Scholar to the table. We traverse the globe through Andrew's eyes, gaining insights into sustainable farming practices and the crucial exchange of knowledge that propels the sector forward. From his family farm beginnings to his studies on the impact of organic waste management, Andrew narrates a tale of growth, responsibility, and the transformative power of education within the world of farming.
Venture with us into the realm of low-input farming, where Andrew's company leads the charge in creating products that nurture the cycle of soil, food, and animal waste. It's a delicate dance of respecting the environment while providing innovative solutions to support it. We engage in a candid discussion about the paradox of advocating for reduced inputs while representing a company that supplies them. The conversation takes a turn towards efficiency, with an eye on the economic and environmental benefits that come from smarter, more responsible farming practices.
Looking ahead, we ponder the evolving landscape of agricultural jobs and the balance between human expertise and technological advancement. Andrew shares his optimism for the future, where practices like regenerative farming and soil enhancement hold the key to sustainability. Embracing the dynamism of the sector, we anticipate a future ripe with potential, from robotics to genomics, while never losing sight of the importance of nurturing local farming communities. Join us for a journey through the complexities and opportunities that define the path towards a sustainable food system.

Next Episode

AgriCulture Live Episode 8 with guest Jack Potter from Wild Capital - "Biodiversity, Net Gain and Nutrient Neutrality"

AgriCulture Live Episode 8 with guest Jack Potter from Wild Capital - "Biodiversity, Net Gain and Nutrient Neutrality"
Embark on an enlightening journey with Jack Potter from Wild Capital, where we navigate the verdant pathways of biodiversity, net gain, and nutrient neutrality. Jack's transition from his roots in farming to a beacon of conservation in the private sector illuminates a fascinating narrative that is both personal and profound. Our conversation stands as a testament to Wild Capital's innovative land acquisition strategies and unyielding dedication to safeguarding our natural heritage. It's a riveting tale that underscores the critical need for a steadfast commitment to environmental preservation, offering a glimpse into how they're pioneering the charge towards a sustainable future.
The world of biodiversity conservation is not just a treasure trove of natural wonders—it's also brimming with career opportunities for those eager to make a difference. We showcase the intersection of nature's intrinsic value with its growing economic recognition, painting a vivid picture of how services like pollination and water purification are finally getting their due. Jack and I dissect the plethora of career trajectories available within this expanding sphere, from accessible entry points to niche expertise roles that are in high demand. Listeners poised at the cusp of their professional lives will find pearls of wisdom here, along with actionable guidance to springboard into impactful careers in conservation.
Finally, we scrutinize the intricate balance of environmental conservation against the backdrop of urban development. By deciphering the complexities of biodiversity metrics and nutrient neutrality, we illuminate the strategies that reconcile progress with the planet's well-being. We confront the challenges of offsetting environmental impacts and the ephemeral nature of current nutrient neutrality measures, while also anticipating a promising future where urban planning harmonizes with environmental integrity. This episode is a deep dive into the future of conservation, agriculture, and the burgeoning role of private investment in fostering a greener tomorrow.

AgriCulture Live - AgriCulture Live Episode 7 with guest Alex Hardie from Harper Adams University - "Attracting New Talent Into Agriculture"

Transcript

Rebekah00:00:01.703

Hello and welcome to AgriCulture Live . My name's Rebekah Shields , I'm from Agricultural Recruitment Specialists and today joining -I've got Alex Hardie from the School of Sustainable Food and Farming at Harper Adams University . So today we're going to be talking about attracting new talent into agriculture . If you've got any comments or questions , please feel free to add them and we