Overview

An agricultural advocacy and literacy specialist is responsible for designing, implementing and coordinating a platform that appropriately and consistently promotes agricultural literacy and advocacy.

What responsibilities will I have?

• Work collaboratively with programs around the organization to ensure that the most effective literacy and advocacy methodologies and technologies are being utilized
• Design and develop resources and content for both students and teachers to help advance agricultural literacy and advocacy
• Develop and manage educational content that aligns with state educational standards
• Ensure program resources and strategies to support specific outcomes as determined by organization leaders and agricultural stakeholders  
• Collaborate with marketing and communications specialists to develop messages appropriate for consumers
• Develop a social media plan to promote literacy and advocacy content
• Provide advocacy training to those with a vested interest in agriculture
• Evaluate and track metrics from programs conducted
• Create budgets for programming and certify that programs are operating according to approved budget
• Investigate innovative ways to bring agriculture to audiences off the farm
• Present to agricultural groups on the importance of agricultural advocacy and literacy

What education and training is required?

A bachelor’s degree in agricultural education, agricultural communications, or another agriculture-related field is required. A passion for the industry and understanding of agricultural practices is a must.

To pursue a career as an agriculture literacy and advocacy specialist:

The following high school courses are recommended:  agricultural education, computer courses, writing.

Where can I work?

Agriculture advocacy and literacy specialist can work in a variety of roles, especially in organizations like the American Farm Bureau, National FFA, checkoff programs, and Agriculture in the Classroom. Some companies and even farms hire people in this capacity.

Future Job Market / Outlook

The future outlook for an agriculture advocacy / literacy specialist will be good over the next five years. 

Suggested Professional Organizations and Associations

• National Association of Agriculture Educators
• American Farm Bureau
• National Agri-Marketing Association