= CULTURE AGRI- JOBS! COMBI- NATION ONE MILLION A GREAT. The Science of Farming NEARLY

NEARLY The Science of Farming A + ONE MILLION Illinois AGRICULTURE =COMBIA GREAT NATION JOBS! In Illinois, food and agricultural product-proce...
Author: Morgan James
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NEARLY

The Science of Farming

A

+

ONE MILLION

Illinois AGRICULTURE

=COMBIA GREAT NATION

JOBS!

In Illinois, food and agricultural product-processing contribute significantly to the state’s economy. There are almost 1 million agriculture-related jobs in Illinois, making up over 13% of employees in the state. Illinois is one of the top ranking states in meat packing, soybean processing, dairy manufacturing, corn processing, feed milling, and vegetable processing. Its fertile soil, favorable climate, availability of good transportation, and industry make it one of the top agricultural states in the nation.

WHY ILLINOIS? Illinois leads the U.S. in processed food sales.

Illinois ranks #1 in the nation in soybean production and #2 in corn production.

Illinois is 4th in the nation for the number of farmers’ markets. Illinois is 4th in the nation for agricultural exports.

Illinois is 5th in the nation for processed food exports.

ed•u•ca•tion•al words: High School Diploma – this is awarded for the completion of high school. Associate’s Degree – this is awarded by community colleges, junior colleges, technical colleges and universities for the completion of a study that usually lasts two years. Bachelor’s Degree – this is awarded for the completion of an undergraduate term that generally lasts four years. Certification – these are papers showing that a test or procedure was passed for a particular subject.

An Ag Filled Day 6:15am Wake up and toss off the bed sheets. Sheets come from cotton. A commodity procurement manager purchased the crop from a cotton farmer on behalf of a manufacturing company before it became your sheets.

You turn in your home2:25pm work. We all know that paper comes from trees, but did you know that a hydraulics technician works on the equipment that turns the wood into paper?

7:40am You take the bus to school. There’s a chance the bus runs with a blend of biodiesel. Some product development managers work with biofuel chemists and farmers to develop the fuel.

After school, you go 4:00pm

10:35am

In gym class, you play a game of baseball. One of the materials used to make a baseball is wool. A sales representative participated in selling the commodity to the company producing the baseballs.

5:45pm

You enjoy a delicious 12:20pm

9:35pm

hamburger for lunch. Not only was the beef raised on a farm, but the meat was inspected and tested by a food safety specialist.

grocery shopping with your family. An inventory manager makes sure the various items are available for consumers.

You eat dinner with your family. An industrial designer helped design your table.

Before bed, you brush your teeth. The mint from your toothpaste was grown on a farm. Chemists work to make sure the proper ingredients are used in toothpaste. These ingredients make your teeth healthy and clean.

AGRICULTURAL BUSINESS

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CA RE ER

Agricultural Business combines the world of agriculture with the fundamentals of business. Business concepts such as economics, management, marketing, finance, human resources, accounting and others are applied to the agricultural areas of crop production, including contract and non-contract farming, seed supply, agrichemicals, farm machinery, wholesale and distribution, processing, marketing, and retail sales. Certified Appraiser | Farm Business Accountant | Logistics & Supply Chain Manager | Sales Representative | Merchandiser

Marketing Specialist – A marketing specialist creates messages on behalf of a company and presents them to a targeted audience for the purpose of promoting products or services. In order to do this, a marketing specialist must be able to understand the specific wants and needs of a company, as well as perform marketing research, so as to create and execute a strategy that reaches a common goal between company departments and presents a uniform message to the targeted audience. Agricultural marketing specialists in Illinois use their research and communication skills to take messages such as “Illinois leads the U.S. in processed food sales,” and create a uniform message that can be distributed through various channels. To learn more about these jobs and others, be sure to visit www.mycaert.com/career-profiles

A bachelor’s degree with emphasis in agricultural communications or agricultural marketing and management is required. Professional organizations include the National Agri-Marketing Association and the American Agricultural Editors’ Association.  

Plant science, or botany, is a branch of biology that deals with the study of plants, including their growth, structure, properties, processes, classification, diseases and environmental interactions. The science of botany dates back to Europe in the 16th century, when physicians observed plants in an effort to identify those that would be useful in medicine. Since then, plants have become the source of many products, such as food, perfumes, dyes, beverages, clothing, and medications, among others. TH PA

Agronomy Sales | Custom Applicator | Entomologist | Horticulturalist | Landscape Designer

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CA RE ER

PLANT SCIENCE

Arborist – Arborists practice the art, science, technology and business of tree care, also known as arboriculture. They are trained to identify trees, promote tree health, identify and diagnose tree diseases and pests, and take measures to correct the problems. Arborists also participate in the safe removal of trees and limbs. Illinois arborists currently face problems with Dutch Elm Disease, which could destroy Elm populations throughout the state. Arborists in Illinois work every day, researching and taking measures to prevent such outcomes. A bachelor’s degree in arboriculture, urban forestry, plant science, horticulture, biology, or a related field is required. Some states also require a license to practice arboriculture. Professional organizations include the Society of American Foresters, International Society of Foresters, and the Illinois Arborist Association.

Animal Science is the science of domesticating animals of both the livestock and companion varieties. This includes beef cattle, dairy cattle, horses, poultry, sheep and swine, as well as dogs, cats, and many others. Professionals in this field are concerned with the nutrition, care, health and well-being of the animals. They also work in the areas of animal production, breeding, and disease control, as well as the marketing, processing, and distribution of animals and animal products such as meat, dairy foods and eggs. TH PA

Animal Biotechnologist | Animal Caretaker | Meat Processor & Inspector | Food Animal Veterinarian | Livestock Buyer

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ANIMALS

CIENCE

Feedlot Manager - A Feedlot Manager supervises and manages daily operations, such as herd nutrition, environmental conditions, and marketing of feedlot livestock. This also includes preparing operational plans, preparing budgets, keeping financial records, and allocating funds. Managers also attend livestock sales and buy and sell livestock. They determine feed rations for the animals and maintain herd health programs in order to monitor and treat illnesses as they arise. Feedlots are directly impacted by growers in Illinois. Almost half of all soybeans harvested in Illinois are consumed by livestock and approximately 840,000 acres of Illinois field corn is used for animal feed. An associate’s degree with an emphasis on animal science or agriculture business is required. Professional organizations include the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association and the American Society of Animal Science.

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CA RE ER

Agricultural Mechanics is the selection, operation, maintenance, service, selling, design, repair, construction, and use of power units, machinery, equipment, structures, and utilities for agricultural purposes. Technological advances have created opportunities to make agricultural jobs quicker, more efficient, accurate, and large scale. Related areas of this profession include structures, land and water management, and electrical applications. Ag Engineer | Electrical Engineer | Hydraulics Technician | Truck Driver | Service Technician

Welder – A welder joins metal parts and maintains, inspects, and troubleshoots equipment, as well as orders supplies and manages inventory. Welding work includes: patching metal on farm equipment, repairing irrigation pipes, hardfacing tillage equipment, and reattaching hitches on cattle trailers. Major employers for welders include agriculture, construction, and mining machinery manufacturers. Despite slow growth in Illinois, about 530 job openings are anticipated each year, with over 17,000 employed today. A high school diploma is required. Welding certification may also be required in many cases. Professional organizations include the American Welding Society, the United Association, and the Welding Research Council.

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CA RE ER

Environmental Services is an industry which strives to produce goods, services, or research in efforts to measure, prevent, limit, or correct environmental damages. This includes waste management, noise-related problems, and pollution of water, air and soil. TH PA

ENVIRONMENTAL

SERVICES

Environmental Compliance Officer | Environmental Science & Protection Technician | Environmental Scientist & Specialist | Nutrient Management | Waste Management Specialist

Environmental Engineer – An environmental engineer works for companies that provide services relating to air and water pollution management, waste disposal, hazardous waste management, remediation and spill cleanup, recycling, or public health issues. Compliance with environmental regulations is crucial, therefore this profession requires the interpretation of environmental engineering laws. Knowledge in ecology, chemistry, hydrogeology, statistics, public health, and waste management prove useful in this career area. Environmental engineers deal with current hazards and work to prevent future problems. In Illinois, above average employment growth is expected for environmental engineers through the year 2018. A bachelor’s degree in agricultural, civil, environmental, or chemical engineering is required. Obtaining a Licensed Professional Engineers Certificate is encouraged. Professional organizations include the American Academy of Environmental Engineers and the American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers.

FOOD SCIENCE

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CA RE ER

Food Science is the study of food, food processing and the improvement of foods for the general public, as well as causes of deterioration. The industry contains various activities ranging from the creation of new foods to designing processes for food creation, packaging materials, and shelf life, just to name a few. Food Production Supervisor | Quality Assurance Manager | Nutritionist | Product Development Food Scientist | Research & Development Technician

Food Safety Specialist – A food safety specialist, also known as a food inspector, ensures that food is processed, packaged and prepared according to the food preparation and safety standards set by companies and regulatory organizations in order to help protect the public from foodborne illnesses. They conduct inspections, take samples, and ensure samples are tested for the presence of bacteria, molds or non-desirable materials. Food safety specialists may also review test results and prepare reports that are issued to the company being inspected. If conditions are not met, a food safety specialist may meet with the company’s management team to recommend changes. In Illinois, major employers for food inspectors include federal, state and local government agencies, as well as meat processing companies. Illinois inspectors also grade or judge products. Higher grades mean higher quality. A bachelor’s degree in food science, chemistry, microbiology or environmental health is required. Professional organizations include the American Society for Microbiology, the American Council for Food Safety and Quality, the Institute of Food Technologies, and the National Coalition for Food and Agricultural Research.

NATURAL RESOURCES TH PA S

CA RE ER

Natural Resources refers to study and management of natural resources such as land, water, soil, plants and animals. Extensive research and technological advances have played a major role in finding alternatives to non-renewable resources. These advances enable us to preserve and minimize our reliance on those resources that cannot be renewed.

Biological Technician | Conservation Officer | Hydrologist | Public Relations Specialist | Restoration Specialist

Conservationist – A conservationist works with landowners and federal, state and local governments to manage, improve and protect Earth’s natural resources. Knowledge of soil, wildlife, forestry, water and other resources are beneficial in this career. Conservationists in Illinois work on soil erosion control, wildlife habitat restoration, watershed management, and prescribed burns. They also assess vegetation and monitor conservation programs, and prepare environmental impact statements. A bachelor’s degree in natural resources, crop science, soil science, biology, or a related field, such as forestry, plant physiology, or environmental science is required. Professional organizations include the World Association of Soil and Water Conservation and the American Society of Agronomy.

Career Corner

Jeff Mathesius | Agronomy Research Manager | DuPont® Pioneer®

Describe your background.   I come from an agricultural background and a family of farmers. My education was focused around agriculture, specifically soil fertility. I began my career as an Agronomist in Northern Illinois. My work involves science and technology of using plants for food, fuel and various other purposes. Describe your job. I coordinate trial testing efforts for a team of agronomists. My work crosses over several different sales areas and even across several states. Currently, I am conducting trial work with nitrogen, insect traits, plant population, variable rate and other precision technologies. Why do you enjoy working with agriculture? Agriculture is fascinating. My field uses science, technology, and research to help us better understand aspects of agriculture. This information can be translated into products and management suggestions that can be developed and passed on to end users. What is your favorite part about your job? I work with diverse groups that come from a broad range of backgrounds. I work with scientists to conduct the research and collect the data, but I see the results turn into products and information that are put to use on farms. Having this blend enables me to see the work translate into something useful for the farmer.

Heidi Grooms | Veterinarian Graham Veterinary Clinic

Describe your background. I was raised on a farm in Sullivan, Illinois. My family grew corn and soybeans and I showed pigs through 4-H and FFA. I received my Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Illinois in Animal Science before completing my Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine, also at the U of I. Describe your job. I am a mixed animal veterinarian. This means that I not only   as dogs and cats, but I also see small companion animals such do farm calls where I work with horses, cows, goats and even camels! On the farms, we work out of our truck, which is essentially a hospital on wheels. A typical day may start with going to a farm early in the morning to help a horse deliver a baby foal, followed by doing surgery on a sick dog at the clinic before lunch, and ending the day giving a new kitten some vaccinations. What do you enjoy most about your job? Being a veterinarian never gets boring. I work with farmers, pet owners, and their animals every day. Working in a small community, I can see what I do matters to people and their animals. Saving an animal that wouldn’t get better without veterinary care is a wonderful feeling.

Kristin Kramer | Agribusiness Quality Assurance Analyst COUNTRY Financial®

  Describe your background. I was raised on a grain farm in Delavan, Illinois, and was a member of FFA (Future Farmers of America). I received my Bachelor’s Degree in Public Relations with a minor in Agriculture from Illinois State University.

Career Corner

Describe your job. I work with insurance accounts that have a farm policy. My role is to analyze the overall quality of the account and identify areas for improvement in order to assist farmers in getting the best coverage that suits their needs and circumstances. This can include accounts that are unprofitable or profitable, but have unique exposures, such as agribusiness attractions. How do you see your job changing in the future? There are many changes in the farm segment. With the rise in equipment costs, weather factors, and many other unforeseen circumstances, claim payments are more significant. We must also adapt to a younger generation of farmers. We have to modify our strategy to appeal to a demographic that is more involved with technology and social media.

Ivan Dozier | State Conservationist Illinois Natural Resources Conservation Service Describe your background. I was raised on a farm in White County, Illinois. My family raised grain and cattle, and my father worked with   tractors. I received a Bachelor of Science Degree in Agronomy and a Master’s in Environmental Studies from the University of Illinois.

Describe your job. I am the State Conservationist for Illinois’ Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). I oversee activities of all the federal NRCS. We provide technical and financial assistance for private land owners and operators. Our ultimate goal is to aid efforts in implementing conservation practices. What do you enjoy most about your job? I enjoy the hands-on exposure working directly with the farmers. I play a part in facilitating and solving issues on farms. How do you see your job changing in the future? In the immediate future, we will encounter financial challenges, as well as technological changes impacting agriculture every day. We must keep up with the advancements, particularly as we learn more about the environment, and adapt to the changes.

Career Corner  

Carey Mathesius | Research Scientist-Nutritionist DuPont® Pioneer®

Describe your background. I grew up in the suburbs of Chicago. During high school, I worked at a veterinary practice for 3 years. I attended the University of Illinois, studying animal science. I later received my Master’s Degree in Animal Nutrition at Iowa State University. Describe your job. I work in the Regulatory Science group at Pioneer. I am responsible for evaluating potential nutritional changes in food and feed crops modified to enhance nutritional quality. This includes conducting dietary exposure assessments for insect resistant and herbicide tolerant crops. This work is part of the comprehensive safety evaluation required for global registration of plant biotechnology products. What do you enjoy most about your job? I work with people from all around the world. The assessments are done not only for the U.S., but Japan, countries in Europe and others as well. The work done in the regulatory phase is the last portion before a product goes on the market. This can make my work challenging, and timely, but I enjoy the pressure. What are the future challenges of your position? Biotechnology products have been on the market since the late 1990s. We will continue to see more in-depth questions and engage in further research and testing to meet regulatory standards.

This issue of Ag Mag has been provided by

Writing Prompt Write a paragraph for each agricultural career profile. Your paragraph should reflect your opinion on why each career profile is important. Do you believe some are more important than others? Why or why not? Use reasons and information you learned throughout the Ag Mag to support your opinion. _____________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________

Information in this Ag Mag may be linked to the following Common Core Standards: Language Arts: CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RI.4.1; RI.4.2; CCSS.ELA-Literacy.W.4.1; W.4.1a; W.4.1b; CCSS.ELA-Literacy.SL.4.1; SL.4.1a; SL.4.1c; SL.4.1d; NGSS 4-LSS-1, 4-ESS2-1, 4-ESS3-1 Next Generation Science Standards: Structure, Function and Information Processing: 4-LS1-1; Earth’s Systems: Processes that Shape the Earth: 4-ESS2-1

Share It After reading the Ag Mag and completing the writing prompt, have a class discussion about the material. Draw on information from the Ag Mag to discuss why these career profiles are important. Share ideas and opinions aloud.

Assign one of the featured careers to each student. Ask them a series of questions related to their career. The student should be able to respond to the question and refer back to information and remarks shared in the discussion.

To learn more about agriculture, visit us at www.agintheclassroom.org, or Illinois Agriculture in the Classroom, 1701 Towanda Avenue, Bloomington, IL 61701.