Agricultural Education & FFA
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Agricultural Pathways
Animal & Veterinary Science
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People who work in the Animal Systems pathway work to develop better, more efficient ways of producing and processing meat, poultry, eggs and dairy products. They study genetics, nutrition, reproduction, growth and development of domesticated farm animals. Some individuals inspect and grade livestock food products, purchase livestock or work in technical sales or marketing. Others advise agricultural producers on how to upgrade animal housing facilities properly, lower mortality rates, handle waste matter or increase production of animal products, such as milk or eggs. Animal care workers train, feed, water, groom, bath and exercise animals. They also clean, disinfect and repair their cages.
Sample occupations include:
- Agricultural Products Sales Representative
- Animal Breeder, Husbandry
- Animal Geneticist
- Animal Nutritionist
- Animal Scientist
- Aquacultural Manager
- Poultry Manager
- Veterinarian
- Veterinary Technician
Plant & Horticultural Science
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People who work in the Plant Systems pathway study plants and their growth. This helps producers of food, feed and fiber crops continue to feed a growing population while conserving natural resources and maintaining the environment. Individuals in this pathway also develop ways to improve the nutritional value of crops and the quality of seeds. They use genetic engineering to develop crops resistant to pests and drought.
Sample occupations include:
- Agricultural Products Sales Representative
- Botanist
- Certified Crop Advisor
- Crop Grower
- Custom Harvester
- Farm, Ranch Manager
- Farmer/Rancher
- Floral Designer
- Floral Shop Manager
- Forest Geneticist
- Golf Course Superintendent
- Nursery and Greenhouse Manager
- Ornamental Horticulturist
- Plant Breeder/Geneticist
- Soil and Plant Scientist
- Turf Famer
Mechanics & Welding
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People who work in the Power, Structural and Technical Systems pathway apply knowledge of engineering, hydraulics, pneumatics, electronics, power, structures, welding processes and controls to the field of agriculture. They design agricultural structures as well as machinery and equipment. They develop ways to conserve soil and water an to improve the processing of agricultural products.
Sample occupations include:
- Agricultural Engineer
- Agricultural Equipment Operator
- Agricultural Equipment Parts Manager
- Agricultural Equipment Parts Salesperson
- Machinist
- Parts Manager
- Welder
- Electricians
- Hydraulic Technician
- Diesel Mechanic
- Maintenance Technician
- Carpenter/Construction