Skills survey reveals U.S. agriculture workforce needs and gaps

A new agri-food employer survey from agcareers.com ranks “Problem-Solving and Decision-Making” as the most necessary skills for all employees.

The "AgCareers.com U.S. Skills Survey" sought insights on trends and data to help address skill development requirements within the agri-food industry. Besides problem-solving and decision-making, ag employers reported “Organization and Planning Skills” and “Teamwork” were the most necessary skills for employees, according to a news release.

Problem-solving and decision-making were also identified as areas with the most significant gap for both current employees and new graduate hires, the survey said. Only 18% of U.S. employers said that new graduate hires were adequately prepared with work-ready skills upon hire, whereas 76% said experienced new hires were equipped with these skills.

The survey revealed the significance of soft-skill development for employees at all levels, particularly for students and individuals entering the workforce for the first time, according to the release.

“Employers indicated that they are most inclined to seek out soft skills training when considering professional development opportunities for their staff; communication and verbal skills trainings were the most useful to employees and new hires,” a summary of the survey said.

Survey data also examined industry-specific skills required for employee success, such as sustainability, data science and food science. Results indicate the most extensive knowledge needs were in agronomy and precision agriculture, followed by animal sciences.

The survey report breaks down specific topics and knowledge for each subject area and outlines the skills necessary for various employment levels, such as skilled trades, production, managers and executives.

Related link: Download "AgCareers.com U.S. Skills Survey"