Agronomist

Benefits to primary industries

I provide information and advice to growers on crops and pastures. It’s my job to stay up-to-date on research and developments in the industry and to pass that advice on to growers. I also help them to understand and make decisions about managing their soil health, crops and pastures.

Where do you live?

I live on a farm just outside town.

What are some important skills?

I spend a lot of time reading new research and reports. I also talk to the fertiliser and seed companies to make sure I understand the developments in their industry and the new products they offer. I need to be able to identify the growing stages of different crops, pastures and weeds, as well as common pests and diseases of those plants, so I can advise my clients on the best management practices for their situations.

What is your favourite part of your job?

I love the contact with people and knowing that my job helps farmers to manage their businesses.

What are the main tools of the trade?

My phone, my computer and my car. I am on the road a lot visiting farmers and companies that produce fertilisers and herbicides. I keep in touch with the research stations and how their trials are going. I am subscribed to a lot of industry newsletters and magazines so I spend a lot of time reading and learning about new research and findings.

What training have you had?

I have a Bachelor of Agricultural Science from university and all the reading and researching that I do is like ongoing training.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

I will still be an agronomist but I will probably be working for a different company.

Trip Preperation. Questions to ask :)

Here are some potential questions learners could ask farmers based on the subtopics:

  • Important Skills:
    1. What skills do you think are most critical for success as a Agronomist?
    2. Can you give an example of a time when you had to use a particular skill to overcome a challenge?
    3. How do you stay proficient in skills like navigation, communication, and emergency procedures?
  • Favourite Part of the Job:
    1. What do you enjoy most about being a Agronomist?
    2. Can you describe a particularly memorable season or experience?
    3. What makes each task unique and exciting for you?
  • Main Tools of the Trade:
    1. What technology or equipment do you rely on most in your daily work?
    2. How do you stay up-to-date with the latest trends in technology?
  • Training:
    1. Can you walk us through your training process to become a Agronomist?
    2. What kind of ongoing training or professional development do you participate in?
    3. How do you think your training has prepared you for the challenges of being a Agronomist?
  • Future Career Goals:
    1. What are your long-term career goals, and how do you see yourself progressing in the industry?
    2. What advice would you give to someone who wants to pursue a career in Agronomist?