How to Become An Agriculture Business Manager
Agricultural business managers are responsible for looking after a farm and its operations. They have to manage everything from sourcing seeds for plantation all the way to procuring and maintaining farm equipment.
Should I Become an Agricultural Business Manager in the US?
If you have a thing for agriculture, then becoming an agricultural business manager can be a great career choice. Read the following article for more information.
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Education
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A Bachelor’s Degree
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Major Requirement
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Business management, Farming, Agriculture economics, etc
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License/Certification
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American Society of Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers. This is a voluntary requirement.
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Experience/Training
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A few years of experience working on a farm can be beneficial.
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Key Skills
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Good organizational skills, Strong analytical ability, Patience, etc.
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Annual Mean Salary (2019) – National
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$80,360 (Farmers, Ranchers, and Other Agricultural Managers)
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Career Outlook (2019 – 2029)
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-6% (Farmers, Ranchers, and Other Agricultural Managers)
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Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics
Career Outlook
The career outlook for Farmers, Ranchers, and Other Agricultural Managers is not very positive as per the estimates provided by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics for 2019 till 2029. During this period, these professionals are expected to experience -6% job growth.
Steps to Become an Agricultural Business Manager
You will have to complete the following steps to become an agricultural business manager in the US:
Get a Bachelor’s Degree
You will have to get a bachelor's degree in a business or agriculture-related discipline to become an agricultural business manager. Since the field of agriculture has experienced a lot of technological advancement, it has become imperative for agricultural business managers to get a college degree at least.
Get Practical Experience
It is beneficial to get some hands-on experience of working on a farm. This will teach you about how farms operate and what you need to do in order to manage one properly. A lot of employers prefer people with experience.
Get Certification
Certification programs are being offered by organizations like the American Society of Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers (ASFMRA). The ASFMRA offers the Accredited Farm Manager program, also known as AFM. To get this certification, you will need a bachelor's degree, some experience in farmland management and, will also have to clear an exam. If you want complete details, please refer to the ASFMRA website.
Duration to Become an Agricultural Business Manager
It will take you around 4-6 years to become an agricultural business manager in the US. The time will vary as per experience and whether you get a certification.
What Are the Requirements to Become an Agricultural Business Manager?
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Complete high school education.
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Get a bachelor’s degree.
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Get some practical experience.
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Get certification (voluntary).
How Much Can I Earn as an Agricultural Business Manager?
Farmers, Ranchers, and Other Agricultural Managers made $80,360 as mean annual salary in the US in 2019 as per the US Bureau of Labor Statistics.