Every Wednesday in 2024 the In the Field Blog has highlighted a young person in agriculture in North Carolina through our Next Gen Ag series. These profiles included students at one of our ag universities or colleges, FFA leaders, young farmers and those just starting out in an agriculture-related field.
As we worked to recognize these young leaders, we also found that they also offered wisdom beyond their years and a passion that we hope carries them forward. As this series concludes at the end of December, we want to take a look back and share some of this wisdom that shows that the future of agriculture in North Carolina certainly is bright. Read below for their advice on getting involved in the agriculture industry.
Advice for getting involved in the Ag Industry:
“Without getting your hands dirty and finding what you enjoy, you will not know where your passion truly lies,” he said. “By gaining hands-on experience across the industry, you will quickly learn where your passion lies and your heart, or career, belongs.”
— Paul Eldridge, Smithfield , student, 4th generation farmer
“Take every experience given to you. There is always something new to be learned and you never know where your true passion might lie.”
– Demico Guy, our new Engineering Technician in the Soil and Water Conservation Division
“People take notice of how hard you work and the quality of your work. Don’t try to find shortcuts to things but do them right to start with and it will pay off in the long run. Don’t be afraid to work hard. It’s always best to be honest and put your best foot forward.”
— Luke West, farmer, Wayne County
“The amazing thing about agriculture is that it has a space for you no matter where your interests lie. If you like marketing, laboratory research, farming, social media, agronomy, horticulture, or just about anything else, then there is a spot for you here. Find where you want to be and chase after it with everything that you have.”
— Junior Torres Diaz, St Pauls, NCSU Ag Education Major
“If you want to be in the agriculture industry, tell as many people as you possibly can and seek mentors. People here will give you advice and point you in the right direction. Have confidence in yourself and your abilities, but also be willing to accept advice and correction. The reward of being in this industry will far outweigh any challenge you might face.”
— Savannah Adams, Four Oaks, NCSU student
“Working in the agriculture industry, especially on the farm, isn’t easy and there are not a lot of days off, but it is incredibly rewarding. Keep in mind that you are making a difference, even on the hard days, for people both within and outside of your community. Knowing that you are truly impacting people across the world through your work is the best feeling in the world.”
— Matt Darden, Darden Family Farms, Clinton
“Agriculture needs young people to continue to grow, innovate and thrive. So, find what part of the industry speaks to you and go for it. Do your research. Truly think about the pros and cons. Ask questions. Shadow a farmer. Bring your ideas to the table and chase your dream.”
— Lauren Sullivan, co-owner and operator of Hardly Farm LLC, Castalia
