New developments in ag-tech equal greater opportunities for agribusiness students
Drones, tracking software, robotics systems and blockchain technology. Sounds like something straight of out a high-tech spy lab. Who would have thought that these cutting-edge technologies were being employed by pioneers in the agribusiness industry at this very moment?
Far from its hands-on farming beginnings, the agricultural sector is at the forefront of emerging technology, inviting a new wave of agribusiness professionals to capitalise on the endless opportunities available in the industry.
Ag-tech is an exciting and evolving sector attracting the brightest minds in the industry tackling issues across food security, genetics, climate change, supply chain and logistics management, and everything in-between.
One pioneer of the South Australian ag-tech industry is University of Adelaide alumni Andrew Grant. Andrew is the co-founder of several ag-tech start-ups, including smart tracking software solution Trust Provenance.
In his role as CEO and Co-Founder, Andrew is pivotal in driving the strategic direction of Trust Provenance, working with the technical teams, pilot partners and customers to build the world’s best traceability software solutions for the food industry.
“Agribusiness is a fundamental industry in Australia and is integral to our quality of life. The industry is undergoing rapid change, and through the power of agricultural technologies we can ensure the sustainability of agriculture and future proof our industry.”
But with new technologies comes a renewed need to equip the next generation of agribusiness professionals with the tools to succeed. With an average of 6 jobs per agribusiness graduate, the industry is dependent on fresh talent to ensure progressive approaches are being applied to existing and projected world food and sustainability challenges. The importance of a new breed of agribusiness experts cannot be underestimated.
Trust Provenance actively participates in the development of new talent in the industry by offering internships as part of the University of Adelaide’s Global Food and Agricultural Business Programs. Under the guidance of seasoned agribusiness professionals, interns have made a real-world impact in Andrew’s business, which has greatly benefitted from the insights, research and analysis provided during recent placements.
Through varied coursework informed by cutting edge research, the Global Food and Agricultural Business Programs offered by the Centre for Global Food and Resources, equip students with the critical thinking skills needed to affect change in the evolving agricultural landscape. Andrew said of the programs:
“These courses will bring you insights and allow you to explore your ideas, especially within the South Australian agriculture and food ecosystem.”Andrew
As a respected leader in the South Australian agribusiness industry, Andrew offers this advice to the next generation of agribusiness professionals.
“Think about the industry in 2, 5 and 10 years’ time, what are the drivers affecting the industry and what does this mean to the practical and commercial requirements of business. How can you best position yourself to be pivotal in enabling these changes to be made in a manner which minimises negative disruption?”
The agricultural industry is undergoing exciting changes to take advantage of new technologies and evolving global food trends. Endless opportunities in ag-tech and beyond wait for passionate individuals ready to make an impact in the world. With scholarships of up to 50% now available, by studying Global Food and Agricultural Business at the University of Adelaide, you will be primed to facilitate change and make an impact on a global scale. For more information on our programs and how they align with your career aspirations, please visit our Global Food and Agricultural Business website.