Citrus Australia is preparing a program to improve education opportunities and employment pathways in the citrus industry, as well as in wider horticulture.
Citrus Australia CEO Nathan Hancock said the industry is committed to forming a deeper partnership with education providers to ensure students are aware of the diverse career pathways in the citrus industry. “Currently there is a huge demand for skilled and semi-skilled staff” but not enough students looking for careers in our industry, he said. “Our plan is to not only inform high school and tertiary graduates, as well as teachers and parents, of the … choices a career in citrus can provide, but also to offer industry assistance to the education sector where needed.”
In addition to informing education programs about jobs in citrus, Citrus Australia plans to work to promote study opportunities in horticulture apprenticeships. It also plans to work with growers and citrus businesses to develop internships, providing a conduit to industry experience.
“We want students to think outside the square when assessing career options,” Hancock said. “You don’t need an agricultural background to work in the industry, and demand will be high for skilled professionals. There are real pathways for career advancement, attractive wages and great opportunities for travel throughout Australia and the world.”
Michael Edwards, who is completing a masters degree in agricultural sciences at Melbourne University, said the fields of agriculture and biosecurity provide multiple avenues for practical ideas. “I like that I can apply mixed sciences such as economics, biology, meteorology, geography and social science all into one project,” he said. “Furthermore, the work has meaning and direction, and it is easy to get lost in seeking new knowledge and brainstorming new ideas.”
Source: Citrus Australia
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