Agriculture is more than farming; it's a vast network of interconnected industries that relies on relationships, collaboration, and shared knowledge. The 2024 Agribusiness and Industry Career Fair, held at the Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment Ag Science Center North, emphasized that point by bringing students, alumni, and employers together to build the professional connections that keep the industry thriving.

Hosted by the Department of Agricultural Economics and the UK chapter of Minorities in Agriculture, Natural Resources and Related Sciences (MANRRS), the fair created a space where the future of agriculture met with those already shaping the industry. The event was open to all students and alumni interested in agriculture, agribusiness, finance, ag and food supply chain management, and other related fields.

“Events like this are critical in an industry like agriculture, where relationships and networking are key,” said Susan Skees, lead organizer of the event. “The career fair allows students to explore job opportunities and connect with leaders across various sectors who understand that agriculture’s success depends on collaboration.”

In today’s increasingly interconnected agricultural landscape, networking has become an indispensable skill. Students attending the career fair had the chance to engage directly with employers, sharing resumes and learning about career paths that extend far beyond traditional roles. 

This year’s career fair emphasized the importance of connection, not just through a resume drop, but through genuine conversations. The fair fostered an atmosphere that allowed for more personalized interactions, where students could ask detailed questions and gain valuable insights into potential career paths.

Talon Buchanan, a senior majoring in Agricultural Economics, reflected on his experience: “Interacting with recruiters from prominent companies like Farm Credit Mid-America and Corteva made me realize how valuable it is to connect with industry professionals. I am now in close contact with several recruiters and have the option to pursue the opportunities they presented to me. This fair has given me valuable connections and a clearer sense of the steps I need to take for a successful career in agriculture.”

For many students, the career fair was an eye-opening experience, demonstrating the wide-reaching influence of agriculture across multiple sectors. Students had the chance to engage with representatives from leading companies and organizations, fostering valuable connections that could shape their future career trajectories.

The event was not just about finding job opportunities for students; it was about discovering their place within an industry that plays a crucial role in feeding the world and addressing global challenges. As they walked away with newfound insights and connections, many felt motivated to pursue careers that align with their interests and values while others came away with new interests in the industry and excitement to learn more about the breath of agriculture.

Employers, in turn, recognized the mutual benefit of these interactions and were eager to engage with the next generation of talent. Moreover, the career fair provided employers with a unique opportunity to showcase their company culture and values directly to prospective employees. By interacting with students face-to-face, they could convey the importance of their mission and the impact of their work in the agricultural sector.

Dr. Aslihan Spaulding, chair of the Agricultural Economics department, shared: “As the chair of our department, I am thrilled to witness the valuable connections our students formed at this year’s career fair. The career fair allows our students to engage directly with industry professionals, gain insights into various career paths, and build relationships that will support their growth and success in agriculture. It’s especially rewarding to see our alumni returning as representatives and making meaningful connections with current students, bridging generations and strengthening our agricultural community.”

These events play a pivotal role in helping students bridge the gap between the classroom and the workforce, especially in an industry as varied and complex as agriculture. From agribusiness consulting to food systems management, students come away with a better understanding of the opportunities available to them and the importance of nurturing relationships.

We are grateful to the outstanding employers and students who made this year's Career Fair a success. If you're interested in joining us next year and connecting with top talent, reach out to Nicole Atherton at nicole.atherton@uky.edu to be added to the invitation list. We look forward to welcoming more organizations that share our passion for student success and industry growth.

Top left: Agricultural Economics Junior Rachel Cowherd with Jerry Pierce of the Kentucky Farm Business Management (KFBM) program.

Top right: Kelly Jordan of the UK Cooperative Extension Service meeting student

Bottom left: Agricultural Economics Senior Jacob Bennett with representatives from Corteva. 

Bottom right: Skylynn Fleming, Nate Brunner (alum), and Abigail Hurst (alum) representing Consolidated Grain and Barge Co. (CGB)

The Department of Agricultural Economics at The University of Kentucky is dedicated to empowering students, faculty, and staff through innovative teaching, impactful research, and meaningful community engagement. Our department is committed to creating an inclusive and collaborative environment that drives excellence in education and contributes to addressing real-world challenges in our field. 

For more information on our programs, events, and initiatives, please visit agecon.ca.uky.edu or follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTube.