It takes leaders and genuine advocacy to keep the “coolness” of agriculture going, even in tough times. In a world where the agricultural landscape is ever-changing, it’s essential that we nurture the growth of agriculture’s appeal, not just for today, but for the future.
In early November, I had a moment that made me reflect on my own leadership journey. I was invited to share my experiences with the current class of the Nebraska LEAD Program (Class 43) during their alumni dinner in Kearney. This was a full-circle moment for me, as the Nebraska LEAD Program played a pivotal role in shaping how I approach both my farming practices and leadership responsibilities, including my work with the Nebraska Corn Growers Association.
When I had the chance to speak with the LEAD 43 fellows, I was reminded of a central truth: despite the economic challenges agriculture faces, the future of the industry is bright. We have to focus on the bigger picture our collective long-term efforts and not just the immediate hurdles that may arise year to year.
Agriculture has evolved significantly over the last decade, shifting in ways that have made it more appealing, particularly to younger generations. Looking back, I remember a time when I thought farming wasn’t the most exciting career. As a child, I spent hours on tractors, but farming, for me, was more about hard work and heartache than it was about passion or excitement.
However, during my college years at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, something changed. Agriculture became less of a chore and more of a calling. The economic boom in agriculture certainly played a role, but it was also a personal shift understanding the full value of agriculture and its potential for both growth and sustainability. This shift in perception is not just an individual experience but one that is reflected in broader trends. Membership in organizations like FFA (Future Farmers of America) is growing, and universities are seeing increasing numbers of students graduating with degrees in agricultural fields.
This “coolness” factor in agriculture didn’t happen by accident. It’s the result of dedicated individuals advocating for the industry and sharing their passion for farming with others. People have worked hard to show the world that agriculture is more than just a way to produce food it’s a vital industry, a way of life, and a community that requires leadership and vision to thrive.
Yet, the economic realities of today’s agricultural sector are not without challenges. While it’s easy to focus on the positive aspects of the industry, we must acknowledge that agriculture’s future is deeply intertwined with the broader economic climate. While we can’t control the economic forces at play, we can continue to advocate for the value and importance of agriculture in our communities and in the economy at large.
As advocates for agriculture, we need to ensure that the positive momentum we’ve built continues. This means supporting industry advocacy groups, participating in policy discussions, and sharing our stories. It’s crucial that we remain engaged with the issues facing agriculture, even when times are tough. Advocacy is a way to keep agriculture’s brand strong, no matter the challenges, and to inspire the next generation of leaders who will continue to drive the industry forward.
Leadership and advocacy go hand in hand in agriculture. They are the keys to making sure that the next generation sees the value in a career that can be incredibly rewarding, both financially and personally. As we continue to face the economic realities of agriculture, we must focus on maintaining the industry’s coolness by embracing leadership roles, engaging in advocacy, and fostering an environment that supports the growth of the next generation of farmers and ranchers. After all, agriculture’s future depends not just on the work we do today, but on how we shape the industry for tomorrow.
