This program prepares students for mid-management and sales positions in agri-business such as fertilizer, seed, feed, chemicals, and business related to the product service areas.

Nature of Work
Workers in agri-business can work in a variety of businesses that produce, process, or distribute agricultural goods. They may do purchasing, producing, or marketing of agricultural products and services. Mid-management work requires that a person have the managerial skills necessary to organize and operate a business. A basic knowledge of accounting and bookkeeping can be helpful in keeping financial records. Most must be familiar with complex safety regulations and requirements of government agricultural support programs. Computer skills are increasingly important.

Jobs
Mid-management and sales positions for businesses that deal with agricultural goods, such as fertilizer, seed, feed, and chemical companies.

Employers
Fertilizer, seed, and chemical companies; support services such as agricultural financing firms, information and research firms, transportation support services, farmers, and ag-supply companies.

Outlook
Overall nationally outlook is low, as employment of farm managers and farmers is expected to decline through the year 2006, due to much consolidation towards fewer and larger farms. However, locally, replacement needs will keep outlook steady.

Earnings
Locally, IDES 1997 report shows wages for graders and sorters of ag products at $6.81-$10.63/hr. Earnings very greatly depending on occupation. OOH/1996 lists earnings of full-time, salaried farm managers at a median of $485/week.

Tech Prep
Agri-Business is currently designed for Tech Prep. Students in High School should contact their High School Counselor.

Earnings vary greatly according to location, experience, and individual.