Aquaculturists

A fish farm is not much different from a mink farm or other operation aimed at raising high volumes of animals. Those who don't like that idea should think twice about this career. On the other hand, fish farms and fish hatcheries give aquaculturists the opportunity to work outdoors, to apply scientific education in a concrete way, and to make a difference in a young and growing industry. Some fish farm operations are small, and some are large; trout farming, for example, is made up of both small and large operations. This variety allows workers in the field to find the size and style of operation that's right for them.

Fishery and wildlife careers sound romantic, and in some ways, they are; that's why they're so popular. Much of the work of an aquaculturist, however, is very pragmatic, including fighting fish diseases.

People drawn to fishery and wildlife management tend to like the outdoors. Keep in mind, however, that this work also involves frequent interaction with others, and the successful aquaculturist should have good people skills. Those who work in administrative positions are mainly business people and don't work directly with the fish.