Farm Crop Production Technicians

High School

You should take courses in mathematics and science; depending on your area of work, you'll need an understanding of biology and chemistry. You should complete as much vocational agriculture work as possible, including agricultural mechanics. In addition, English is very important, because much of the work requires good communication skills. Classes in artificial intelligence (AI) will help you to be better prepared for advanced coursework in the use of AI in agriculture in college.

Postsecondary Training

A career as a farm crop production technician requires training in a rigorous two-year technical or agricultural college program in order to learn the principles of crop production. In such a training program, you can expect to take a broad range of courses relating to agriculture in general and farm crop production in particular, as well as some general education courses. Typical first-year courses include agricultural machinery, animal husbandry, soil science, entomology, English, physical education, science, and mathematics. Typical second-year courses include agricultural economics, soil fertility, plant pathology, forage and seed crops, and social science. Students also are often required to complete a co-op or internship with an agricultural employer.

If you wish to specialize in vegetable or fruit production, you may be able to modify your program to concentrate in these areas. You may study topics such as vegetable and fruit production in the first year and vegetable and fruit marketing in the second.

Certification

Colleges and universities, online learning platforms, and professional associations offer certificate programs in agriculture, crop production, and artificial intelligence, advanced data analytics, and other types of emerging technology. These programs typically last six months to a year. Such programs are a good way to expand your skills, as well as explore the field without enrolling in a degree program.

Other Education or Training

Conferences, webinars, classes, workshops, and other continuing education opportunities are provided by the American Society of Agronomy, Crop Science Society of America, and other national, state, and local organizations. Contact these organizations for more information.