Food & Agriculture

Leading Innovation in Agriculture

Where Golden Fields Meet Golden Opportunities

The world’s breadbasket is not how you left it. We’re no longer just waving fields of wheat or herds of grazing cattle — we’re cooking up innovative and sustainable ideas about how to feed the world. From precision agriculture technology to cutting-edge robotic milkers, we’re embracing the latest technologies and leading innovations in the industry — all that’s missing is you. Whether you’re drawn to cutting-edge agricultural equipment manufacturing or the exciting field of ag tech, we’ve got plenty of fertile ground for career advancements. Go ahead, plant your roots and grow in Kansas.

Facts & Rankings

#1

In total value of beef and beef products exported at $2.0 billion (2022)

$53.4B

In Direct Output From Agriculture, Food and Food Processing Sectors in the Kansas Economy

256,000

Jobs Supported by Kansas Agriculture Across the State

#7

Agriculture-Producing State in the U.S.

Nurture Your Career Aspirations

We’ve fostered fertile ground for diverse career opportunities in our thriving agriculture and food sector. From traditional farming opportunities to innovative careers in research and development, our rooted agricultural heritage and forward-thinking culture provide a rich landscape of opportunity.

Home to 4,700 agri-food businesses across the state, including household names such as Tyson and John Deere and others on the up-and-up like Agtech and PrairieFood, Kansas is a hub for both industry giants and innovative startups. Here, you can join the ranks of the best in shaping food production and sustainability.

Grow Your Talents

Whether you’re ready to build a solid foundation or advance your career in the food and agriculture industry, look no further than Kansas’ reputable institutions and top-notch programs. Kansas State University (K-State) — the 11th best school in the country for agricultural sciences — stands tall among them with 16 agricultural programs and innovative agriculture research centers and projects. From agricultural business, economics and journalism, K-State provides a comprehensive and diverse education in the field. Fort Hays State University (FHSU) also boasts modern facilities, practical hands-on experiences on their 3,825-acre farm and programs in agricultural business, agricultural education, and agronomy, which can prepare you for various career paths within the industry.

Whether you’re aiming to start your own farms or work in agribusiness, community colleges across Kansas also provide a solid foundation for success. From Dodge City to Hutchinson, find coursework in ranch and farm to natural resource management. Through hands-on training and classroom instruction, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle the challenges of the modern agriculture and food industry.

A Future Brighter Than the Kansas Sunrise

In Kansas, your little ones don’t have to wait until college to pursue their passions in the food and agriculture industry. Imagine this: while in high school, your talented student can be invaluably mentored by seasoned professionals and gain an education tailored for high-skill, high-demand jobs. The Agricultural Education Program prepares students for successful careers in global agriculture and natural resources systems in 220 programs across the state. Olathe West High School’s Green Tech Academy is one of the only programs in the US where students have access to in-depth research and tools about renewable energy and sustainable farming techniques at the high school level. And, Kansas 4-H and FFA are two stellar programs that offer endless opportunities for your child’s growth and success through STEM, agriculture, healthy living and civic engagement teachings. In classrooms and clubs within Kansas’ vibrant communities, our state’s young people develop their potential for leadership and success through agricultural education. In Kansas, your child can ignite their passion for and cultivate their talents in the agriculture and food industry.

Young Kansas elementary school student in science class

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