On Friday, May 16, the Cowra Agricultural Institute welcomed 80 students from six local schools for an AgTech Immersion Day, marking a significant step in cultivating a future-ready workforce for the agricultural sector. This event, a collaborative effort between the NSW Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (NSW DPIRD) and the NSW Department of Education (NSW DOE), was part of the Targeted Workforce Development Scheme. The day aimed to introduce students to various agricultural topics, emphasizing regional industry needs and technological advancements.
The AgTech Immersion Day was designed to showcase the diversity of opportunities within the agricultural sector, right in the students’ own backyard. Jo Hathway, NSW DPIRD Schools Program Officer, emphasized that the event was about demonstrating to students that agriculture is a dynamic, technology-driven industry with a broad range of career pathways. Sessions covered meat science, extensive livestock production, perennial wheat, and digital farming technology, helping students see how their personal strengths and interests could align with real-world agricultural careers.
This event coincided with National Careers Week 2025, highlighting the importance of career planning and workforce development. It also aligned with the launch of the DPIRD’s new Agriculture Workforce Strategy, which is currently open for public consultation. Ms. Hathway noted that building a skilled pipeline for agriculture involves engaging students early and providing them with a sense of what modern farming entails, particularly in regions like the Central West and Riverina, where agriculture is a vital part of the economy.
The Cowra AgTech Immersion Day is part of a broader suite of place-based initiatives supported through the Targeted Workforce Development Scheme. This includes a concurrent AgTech program for TAFE students taking place in Young from May 12–15. The AgTech Workforce Development Strategy is a component of the NSW Government’s ongoing efforts to invest in skills and employment to future-proof the agriculture sector.
The implications of this initiative are significant. By introducing students to the technological advancements and diverse career opportunities in agriculture, the program aims to attract young talent to the sector. This is crucial for addressing the skills gap and ensuring the sustainability of the agricultural industry in NSW. Moreover, by aligning educational programs with industry needs, the initiative seeks to create a workforce that is well-equipped to meet the challenges and opportunities of modern farming.
The AgTech Immersion Day not only provides students with valuable insights into the agricultural sector but also helps to build a skilled and knowledgeable workforce for the future. This proactive approach to workforce development is essential for the continued growth and innovation of the agriculture industry in NSW.