Human Interest

Helping America's Farmers Grow

Posted: 9/7/2010

The people who will supply the world with food, animal feed, fuel and fiber in years to come are learning from a major agricultural company today.

(NAPSI) - With the world facing the challenge of feeding 9 billion people by 2050, equipping the future leaders of the agriculture industry is more important than ever.

That's why one leading agribusiness firm, Syngenta, is working with FFA (formerly Future Farmers of America) through a variety of scholarships, internships and mentorship opportunities to support education and career development of agriculture's next generation.

FFA is a dynamic youth organization offering agricultural education programs at middle and high schools. Today, student members are engaged in a wide range of activities, leading to over 300 career opportunities in agriculture. Surprising to many, only 27 percent of FFA members live in rural farm areas. More than a third live in urban and suburban areas, with chapters in such large cities as New York, Chicago and Philadelphia.

One way FFA helps its members is by providing valuable knowledge from sponsor companies. For example, Vern Hawkins, president of Syngenta Crop Protection in North America, who is also serving as chairman of the National FFA Sponsors' Board, suggests a few important actions students should take, as well as skills that will help them prepare for success.

"Pursuing opportunities to gain work experiences through internships with companies or industries you believe are interesting is invaluable. The work experience will strengthen the students' résumés and often improve their view of what work experience is most interesting to them. Taking the initiative to pursue leadership opportunities is also important."

He further advises upcoming or recent college graduates as they begin their careers: "Take the initiative to use your network and create opportunities to meet or connect with prospective employers. It's helpful to know what you're looking for in a prospective employer and what careers or positions you aspire to learn, but it is not necessary for you to be certain as you begin your career. It is important to be flexible and willing to pursue alternative positions if you believe they will still enable you to achieve your career goals. Also, willingness to relocate is an advantage that will help young graduates access more career opportunities and provide more personal and professional development.

"Self-motivation, integrity, willingness and ability to learn, communication and listening skills, composure and teamwork skills are capabilities new hires should work to develop and demonstrate to their employers."

Learn More

To learn about jobs, e-mail college.recruiting@syngenta.com. For facts on mentoring, internships and scholarships, e-mail young.leaders@syngenta.com. For further information, visit www.syngenta.com or www.ffa.org or call (866) 796-4368.

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