Training agronomists to meet projected opportunities in the private sector

Industry will need agronomists with thorough training in biology, chemistry, and mathematics, reinforced by advanced training in soil science, biochemistry, plant physiology, plant pathology, entomology, plant anatomy, plant morphology, ecology, genetics, and statistics. Full command of spoken and written English will be required for best performance; knowledge of one or more foreign languages could be useful. Final degree requirements will range from 2‐year degrees through the Ph.D. In general, a broad but thorough scientific training will be preferred above narrow specialization and training in technique. Emphasis should be on training for work in interdisciplinary teams. In addition to training in science, agronomists in industry will be helped by training in and appreciation of the humanities, economic theory, and sociology, in light of present‐day concerns with the societal impacts of applied science.