When most people dream of a career in agriculture, they picture tractors, barns and fields of corn. But as Dr. Michelle Schack reminds us, agriculture is more than plows and sows. Agriculture is technology, science, communications, education, finance, and more.
Michelle didn’t grow up on a farm. She found her way into agriculture while pursuing her pre-vet degree. Today, she’s a respected dairy veterinarian and social media advocate.
Her story is proof that your background doesn’t define your impact in agriculture.
Agriculture Needs More Than Just Farmers
The world of food and farming runs on far more than tractors and milking parlors. Behind every gallon of milk or bushel of grain are people in science, technology, logistics and finance working to put food on your plate.
“We need financial people in agriculture. We need researchers, lab techs and communicators. All of them. It doesn’t matter what your interest is. There’s going to be some version of that within agriculture.”
As fewer people grow up on farms, the industry must widen its gates, not close them. It is not a problem, it’s an opportunity. Welcoming people whose path to the industry may not be traditional can make space for new ideas, fresh perspectives and unique connections to food.
Michelle points out that bringing in talent from outside the traditional ag pipeline isn’t just about filling jobs. It’s about strengthening the industry through diversity of thought and experience.
The Future of Ag Is Off the Farm
Michelle challenges the status quo with a bold outlook on agriculture today:
“The future of agriculture is off the farm. There are people who didn’t grow up in agriculture who can come in and make a difference. We should be bringing them in.”
This is not a criticism of tradition; rather, it’s a call for inclusion. Agriculture’s strength lies in the diversity of skills, stories and viewpoints.
Those shaping the future of agriculture are software developers building precision ag tools, veterinarians improving animal welfare and storytellers helping consumers understand where their food comes from. What matters isn’t where you grew up but that you care about feeding people, improving systems and protecting the land.
Michelle’s own story proves the point. She didn’t grow up around cows or corn, but she found her purpose in animal health and dairy welfare. Now, she’s using her platform to show that agriculture has room for everyone.
Find Your Role. Grow Your Impact.
“You just have to find your passion and figure out what you’re good at. There’s a place for everyone.”
So maybe you won’t wear boots every day. That’s okay. You still belong in the field of agriculture. The industry needs your help to grow stronger, smarter and more connected.
Learn More
In the latest episode of The Cultivating Leaders Podcast, Michelle challenges listeners to think differently about their place in agriculture, opportunities in the industry and what it really means to create a sustainable future. This conversation will leave you curious, compassionate and challenged.