In a novel convergence of sectors, cyber security and agriculture intersected in Gloucestershire this week at the inaugural Hack-A-Tractor event. Hosted by Hartpury University and Hartpury College’s Digital Innovation Farm, the event aimed to illustrate the pivotal role of digital skills in the future of food, farming, and rural resilience.
The day brought together around 60 agriculture students from Hartpury with 20 cyber apprentices from Gloucestershire College and students from the University of Gloucestershire. Industry representatives from organizations such as CyberFirst, NFU Mutual, CACI, Modusafe, NCSC, Talis Amos, T H White, and Invest in Gloucestershire also attended, underscoring the growing industry support for the fusion of these sectors.
The event kicked off with a keynote from Claire Whitworth, Hartpury College principal, followed by a session from Chris Dunning-Walton, MD and founder of Sentients, who discussed the pervasive influence of cyber security in our world. The South West Regional Cyber Crime Unit led an extended hands-on activity, providing students with practical insights into real-world threat scenarios.
Agriculture students engaged in an interactive cyber challenge, while their cyber counterparts toured the Digital Innovation Farm, witnessing firsthand the agricultural technology at work. The cyber students also explored Hartpury’s Digital Studio, navigating an obstacle course on the tractor simulator. A networking lunch provided an opportunity for students and industry professionals to connect and build relationships across sectors.
Hollie Wakefield, general manager of CyNam, emphasized the importance of cross-sector collaboration in securing the future of technology. “Events like this provide an incredible opportunity to showcase the importance of working together,” she said. For the students, the day was more than just a learning experience; it was a chance to explore each other’s sectors and gain insights that might otherwise have gone unnoticed.
Claire Whitworth highlighted the real-world interconnectedness of food production, technology, and data security. “Our role is to prepare young people for the future,” she said, emphasizing the importance of equipping students with the skills to use emerging technologies for efficient and sustainable food production.
Gloucestershire stands out as one of the few regions in the UK where cyber development and agricultural innovation coexist. With Hartpury’s Digital Innovation Farm, the Golden Valley Cyber Innovation ecosystem, and a cluster of cyber, defence, and intelligence employers all within close proximity, the region is uniquely positioned to foster this growing convergence of skills.
The Hack-A-Tractor event served as a testament to the power of applied learning and collaboration, offering a glimpse into the future of farming where technology and cyber security play increasingly vital roles. As the sectors continue to intersect, events like these will be crucial in shaping the next generation of innovators equipped to tackle the challenges and opportunities of a rapidly evolving landscape.