A high school diploma or an equivalent certificate and at least an associate's degree in applied science is typically required to become an agricultural technician. Many companies may also require that you have two years of specialized training and are extremely familiar with the tasks of this position. Some of these tasks may include animal breeding, crop production, research, and experimentation. This profession has become increasingly important and many schools are offering training in this field. You will want to start researching job requirements and schools that offer training or courses in this area of agriculture to prepare for this career.
Some students choose to work on a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree, and this program usually offers courses including animal science and husbandry, agriculture and the environment, and crop production. There are some associate degree programs that offer similar courses and you will need to pursue the type of degree that correlates with your career choice. A bachelor's degree. may increase employment options, career advancement opportunities, and salary rates. Additional courses that you may want to consider taking include farm business management, animal health and wellness, and environmental assessment. Excelling in courses in your major will improve your chances to become an agricultural technician.
You might also explore two year training programs that mix academics with hands-on training and practical use of your knowledge that will prepare you to enter this profession. Internships during your undergraduate studies may also help you become an agricultural technician because some employers may prefer that you have completed several types of training. Your experience in laboratories will equip you with the skills needed to perform complex experiments and testing. Various computer science courses may familiarize you with the computer programs used throughout this profession and you would benefit from several computer electives.
There is a wide variety of equipment that you will need to operate in this profession, so you will want to specifically focus on lab and computer courses. Excellent communication skills, technical writing abilities, and organizational skills will also be important to become an agricultural technician. Your experience opportunities should display an extreme proficiency in the field and you should request recommendations from professors and employers. If you opt not to continue your education after high school and would like to become an agricultural technician, you may be able to gain employment in an entry level position. There are some companies that are willing to train employees who lack education and experience in the field.
