> > > As Megan McGrady, senior education consultant at the National FFA Organization, describes it, “The most robust ag career tool for teachers and students to explore over 300 careers” is now even better. The updated AgExplorer boasts more than 65 new career profiles, thanks to partner AgCareers.com, as well as three new career focus areas— sustainability, agricultural technology and skilled trades. A new look and feel also spotlight a renovated career finder, now named “My Career Quiz,” with double the questions as before. With an added focus on personal interests and updated professional preferences, such as hybrid/remote working conditions, the goal is to “really get to know the student and who they are at heart,” McGrady says. After all, AgExplorer is the students’ domain. “Not all career sites are student-friendly,” McGrady notes, “but this one is easy to use. Students return to this resource.” She points out its “meaningful information that students understand” instead of “paragraphs of unending content.” It’s also engaging, with virtual field trips that give students behind-the-scenes looks at industry partners. Plus, this unique, one-stop shop now oers an even clearer connection between future career options and current FFA experience: Each job profile suggests FFA and SAE connections to help develop skills related to that role. “We don’t want AgExplorer to be a tool that is stagnant,” McGrady says. “We want it to be relevant and help students find their place in agriculture.” It helps achieve that whether or not students pursue one of the site’s five personalized career suggestions. “Even just becoming exposed to the variety of agriculture jobs makes you a more agliterate consumer, and that makes you a better overall consumer,” McGrady adds. “It’s important to see all that’s available because it makes you more informed and grows your appreciation for the industry,” she says. “And that makes a more positive industry as a whole.” Agriculture has no shortage of career options. Whether you are looking for a job where you can help others, find your place in the business world, learn a forgotten craft or develop other talents, one of the 300+ careers profiled on AgExplorer could bring you exactly what you are seeking. Here are six unique careers to consider. 1. ZOOLOGIST Lions and tigers and bears, oh my! JOB SYNOPSIS When you think about your heroes, do folks such as Charles Darwin, Jane Goodall and the Crocodile Hunter come to mind? If so, a career in zoology might be for you. A zoologist studies the behavior of animals and wildlife, the diseases and genetics of animals across the globe, and animal health and behavior. AREAS OF STUDY Pursuing a career in this field means you most likely need to earn a bachelor’s or master’s degree in zoology, biology, natural resources management or ecology. But if you want to try courses before committing to a degree, study the fundamentals of zoology in classes such as ag education, biology, anatomy and animal science. Computer and mathematics skills are also helpful. COMMON EMPLOYERS After completing their studies, zoologists are most often employed by zoos, aquariums, wildlife centers and parks. They can also work for conservation groups, animal pharmaceutical companies, research firms, governmental agencies, or colleges and universities. AVERAGE SALARY $64,000 per year 2. RESTORATION SPECIALIST There’s more to fix than antiques. JOB SYNOPSIS Restoration is more than just a category on Pinterest. It can also be considered a career in agriculture. A restoration specialist investigates the connections between organisms and the environment. They make recommendations for improvements with the goal of reestablishing natural ecosystems. AREAS OF STUDY Students interested in careers like this are recommended to take high school courses in ag education, earth science, biology, plant science, chemistry, biology and mathematics. After high school, pursuing an advanced degree in biology, plant science, environmental science or natural resource management can set you up for success. COMMON EMPLOYERS Much of this work will include implementing your recommendations for seed companies, crop protection By Laura Denton and Bev Flatt, National FFA Organization Exploring Unique Agricultural Careers AgExplorer: New Design, More Connections, Same Purpose Photo by Andrii Yalanskyi on Adobe Stock
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