A new program has this week launched to connect entrants in the fields of agriculture and/or information technology (IT) with work placements in AgTech and agronomy related agribusinesses throughout Queensland.
Delivered by the Queensland Farmers’ Federation (QFF), the Agricultural Digital Support Work Placement Program will place 20 AgTech Officers with host agribusinesses to support the digitisation of the agricultural sector and the uptake of new technologies throughout the regions.
The 12-month placements will provide AgTech Officers with mentorship, accredited training, access to specialist knowledge and networking opportunities.
QFF CEO Jo Sheppard said the program was an important step forward in the development of pathways into Queensland’s AgTech sector.
“This program is providing pathways that will support our sector as it continues to take advantage of the latest digital technologies,” Ms Sheppard said.
“This cohort of AgTech Officers will help bridge knowledge gaps and ensure that Queensland agribusinesses remain at the forefront in their regions.
“Queensland farmers and agribusinesses are celebrated for standing at cutting edge of agriculture and with this being a work placement program I expect that we will see a two-way transfer of knowledge that will really be of immense benefit to the careers of these AgTech Officers.”
QFF is currently seeking applications from both agribusinesses and potential AgTech Officers looking to participate in the program.
“This is a great opportunity for agribusinesses to meaningfully contribute to the development of AgTech in Queensland while developing their digital capacity,” said Ms Sheppard.
“For the AgTech Officers this will certainly be an excellent opportunity to share and develop your skills, while gaining industry knowledge and connections that will be relevant for the rest of your careers.”
Agribusinesses will receive resources to help build their mentorship capacity to enable a smoother transition of knowledge between parties. AgTech officers will create a Professional Development Plan that will provide structure to their experience and fast track their AgTech skill sets.
Minister for Training and Skills Development Di Farmer said the Queensland Government continued to support the agricultural workforce by providing more opportunities to enhance skills and provide world-class training.
“We have a strong workforce with great momentum and we are making sure that we support our emerging industries that will help drive Queensland’s innovation economy, including the agricultural digital sector,” Minister Farmer said.
“I am pleased that we partnered with Queensland Farmers’ Federation and am thrilled to launch the new initiative, the Agricultural Digital Support Work Placement Program.
“Not only will this program provide us knowledge to upskill but it will also help bridge the gap between employers and jobseekers within the industry.”
“It is funded under our $15 million VET Emerging Industries initiative and forms part of Queensland’s $200 million Future Skills Fund,” she said.
For more information about the program and to express interest either as a host or AgTech Officer, visit https://www.qff.org.au/projects/agtech-officer-placement-program/