New initiative hopes to boost entrants into a range of horticultural jobs
A new partnership between The Institute for Agriculture and Horticulture (TIAH) and Growing Kent & Medway is aiming to entice a new generation into a career in horticultural food and drink production.
As part of the collaboration, a regional hub is being developed within TIAH’s new online service for professional skills and careers. The hub will include local information about employers, job profiles, and specific career pathways in the Kent and Medway regions.
Announced during Green Careers Week, the partnership hopes to highlight the large variety of roles and careers available throughout the horticultural food and drink supply chain, including those that can help address climate change.
Dr Nikki Harrison, programme director for Growing Kent & Medway, said: “Kent and Medway are at the forefront of sustainable food and drink production. Businesses are leading on innovative growing techniques in vertical farming, regenerative viticulture enterprises, through to cutting-edge technologies being used on innovative fruit farms.
”By putting a spotlight on the pioneering businesses operating in our region and highlighting sustainable career opportunities, we hope to inspire the next generation and bring fresh new talent into the sector.
“The horticultural sector offers a huge range of diverse and exciting career opportunities. However, we know there are skills gaps that need to be addressed to ensure it can continue to innovate and remain resilient in the future.”
The regional hub will include the latest information on career pathways, company profiles, and local training and educational opportunities specific to Kent and Medway.
Growing Kent & Medway’s involvement with the partnership follows a consultation on the skills needs of the fresh produce sector with key stakeholders, delivered by Locate in Kent.
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