Why Agricultural Education Matters — Now More Than Ever

Agricultural education is not simply about preserving tradition. It is about preparing people, and without preparation, agriculture as we know it becomes fragile.

Across South Carolina and the nation, agriculture is facing a convergence of pressures: an aging workforce, fewer young people entering the field, and rapidly increasing technical and business complexity. These challenges are widely documented by researchers, universities, and industry leaders, and they all point to the same conclusion: Without strong agricultural education, the future agricultural workforce is at risk.

1. The Agricultural Workforce Is Aging Faster Than It Is Being Replaced

According to the most recent U.S. Census of Agriculture, the average age of American farm producers is now over 58, and producers aged 65 and older significantly outnumber those under 35. This imbalance has grown steadily over the past two decades.

What this means in practical terms:

• Many experienced producers are nearing retirement.

• Fewer young people are prepared to step into leadership roles.

• Succession is increasingly uncertain, especially for family farms.

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This is not just a farming issue, it affects land stewardship, food production, rural economies, and community stability.

Agriculture depends on continuity, and continuity depends on education.

Source: U.S. Census of Agriculture (USDA)

2. Modern Agriculture Is More Complex Than Ever Before

Today’s agriculture is no longer defined solely by physical labor or inherited knowledge. It is a highly technical, interdisciplinary field that requires competence in:

• data and precision technology,

• advanced equipment and mechanization,

• environmental and regulatory systems,

• business management and market analysis,

• science-based production practices.

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Organizations such as United States Department of Agriculture and land-grant universities consistently emphasize that agriculture now requires a skilled, adaptable workforce, not just willing hands.

Without intentional education, students are unlikely to develop the breadth of knowledge needed to succeed in modern agricultural careers.

Source: USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA)

3. Exposure Must Happen Early — Not Just in College

Institutions like Clemson University play a critical role in agricultural research, innovation, and post-secondary education. As South Carolina’s land-grant university, Clemson prepares students for advanced careers across agriculture, agribusiness, education, and natural resource fields.

But research and workforce data show that students who pursue agricultural careers typically had early exposure, often before college.

When agriculture is introduced only at the post-secondary level:

• fewer students enter the pipeline,

• fewer are academically prepared,

• and many never consider agriculture as a viable or meaningful path.

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Strong agricultural education must begin earlier, while students are still forming interests, skills, and direction.

Source: Clemson Cooperative Extension; USDA workforce development research

4. Agricultural Education Is Also a Leadership Pipeline

Agricultural education is not only about technical skill. High-quality programs emphasize:

• problem solving,

• ethical decision-making,

• leadership and communication,

• responsibility and stewardship.

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These are the same traits communities rely on in:

• farm operators,

• agribusiness leaders,

• educators,

• conservation professionals,

• and rural civic leadership.

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In this sense, agricultural education is a leadership development strategy, not just career training.

5. Why South Carolina Needs Strong Agricultural Education Programs

South Carolina’s agricultural and agribusiness sectors contribute tens of billions of dollars annually to the state’s economy and support hundreds of thousands of jobs.

This economic impact depends on:

• a prepared workforce,

• stable leadership transitions,

• and people who understand both the science and the responsibility of agriculture.

  
  

Without investment in education, the gap between industry needs and workforce readiness continues to grow.

Source: Palmetto AgriBusiness Council; USDA economic impact reporting

6. A Statewide Solution That Builds the Pipeline

The South Carolina Governor’s School for Agriculture exists to address this challenge at a critical point in the pipeline.

As a statewide, residential, secondary-level institution, the school provides:

• rigorous academics,

• hands-on agricultural learning,

• early exposure to agricultural careers,

• and leadership development that prepares students for post-secondary education and industry pathways.

  
  

By introducing students to agriculture as a modern, complex, and meaningful field, the school helps ensure South Carolina’s agricultural future is not left to chance.

7. How Public Support and Philanthropy Work Together

The South Carolina Governor’s School for Agriculture is state funded, reflecting the public importance of agricultural education.

Like many public institutions, however, state funding is designed to support core operations. Philanthropic support, through the John de la Howe School Foundation, helps strengthen programs, expand opportunities, and support long-term stability beyond annual budget cycles.

This partnership allows the school to remain responsive, innovative, and future-focused while maintaining public accountability.

The Bottom Line

Agricultural education matters now because:

• the workforce is aging faster than it is being replaced,

• agriculture requires more technical and leadership skill than ever before,

• early exposure is critical to building a strong pipeline,

• and South Carolina’s economy and rural communities depend on prepared leaders.

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Investing in agricultural education is not about nostalgia. It's about continuity, competence, and stewardship.

And the decisions made today will shape agriculture for generations to come.

Sources

• U.S. Census of Agriculture (USDA)

• USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA)

• Clemson University & Clemson Cooperative Extension

• Palmetto Agribusiness Council